The 2021 NAACP Image Awards celebrates Stephen Curry, Misty Copeland, and more with a complete Virtual Experience.
Black people NEED to celebrate. After the year we’ve had as a community, any opportunity to highlight Black achievement is a blessing we deserve. The NAACP is keeping that same energy and not letting up on the #BlackExcellence with their announcement of a full week-long virtual experience. Kicking off March 22nd through March 27th, the entire virtual celebration will conclude with the legendary 52nd Annual NAACP Image Awards. This year, the award show will commence with a virtual red carpet, curated conversation series, viewing of past performances and speeches, and an after-party celebration following the live show. As typical award seasons often overlook the exemplary contributions made by Black artists, actors, and creatives, the Image Awards continues to provide a breath of fresh air.
The NAACP has always aimed to shine a light on the best of our culture. Whether it's by boycotting negative portrayals in films or partnering with celebrities to bring aid to families in need, they have shown up for our community tirelessly. In 1967, the NAACP Image Awards were created to honor people of color who excelled in the arts. Additionally, this event has honored groups or individuals who have proven a strong dedication to social justice-related causes through creative efforts. This year, the Image Awards’ track record for breaking barriers is no different.
In addition, a first in the event’s history, the NAACP announced that it will be awarding two recipients, NBA superstar Stephen Curry and The Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA), with the Jackie Robinson Sports Awards. This award acknowledges high athletic achievement while simultaneously being involved in social justice, civil rights, and community engagement initiatives. Previous recipients of this award have been Michael Jordan, Jim Brown, and The Harlem Globetrotters.
Additional award recipients include:
Misty Copeland, who will receive the Spingarn Medal, which honors the recent achievements of a living African American. Copeland made history by becoming the first African American Female Principal Dancer with the prestigious American Ballet Theatre. She was also appointed by President Obama to the President’s Council on Fitness, Sports, and Nutrition.
Rev. Dr. Wendell Anthony, who will receive Activist of the Year for his years of work and dedication to uplifting the Black community. This work includes his efforts to combat the COVID-19 pandemic and fighting for the protection of voting rights within his community as NAACP president of the Detroit branch.
Madison Potts will receive the Youth Activist of the Year Award for her significant work in Georgia, as an organizer with voter education and registration in the primary election, general election, and 2020 GA Senate runoff election.
Be sure to stream 52nd NAACP Image Awards Virtual Experience at naacpimageawards.net March 22nd- March 27th for an extraordinary display of continued excellence for our people!
