The Positive Community Great American Emancipation Day Awards Celebration
"Loving Service"
On Saturday, February 22, 2025, The Positive Community media company will launch its year-long celebration of “25 Years of Good News” with the 6th Annual Great Emancipation Awards Banquet. This event presents a unique consumer marketing opportunity for businesses and corporations, targeting the NY/NJ metropolitan area, the #1 Black consumer market in the USA, including communities from the Caribbean and Africa.
This celebration commemorates the 160th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation, signed into law by President Abraham Lincoln on January 1, 1863. It is the only major observance in the tri-state region to recognize the Great Emancipation as a profound spiritual and cultural milestone in American history.
The Great Emancipation Awards honor individuals, organizations, and corporations whose work upholds the principles of social justice, ethics, values, and community service. Join us as we celebrate forward-thinking leaders and their contributions to advancing greatness and community ideals.
This celebration commemorates the 160th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation, signed into law by President Abraham Lincoln on January 1, 1863. It is the only major observance in the tri-state region to recognize the Great Emancipation as a profound spiritual and cultural milestone in American history.
The Great Emancipation Awards honor individuals, organizations, and corporations whose work upholds the principles of social justice, ethics, values, and community service. Join us as we celebrate forward-thinking leaders and their contributions to advancing greatness and community ideals.
Location
Robert Treat Hotel
50 Park Place Newark, NJ 07102
50 Park Place Newark, NJ 07102
Date & Time
February 22, 2025, 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Our Co-Hosts
Our returning co-hosts bring unparalleled energy, insight, and charisma to guide this year’s celebration.
Reverend Jacques DeGraff
Reverend Jacques DeGraff is a passionate advocate for economic and social justice, using wit and experience to champion the disenfranchised. As a leader in the One Hundred Black Men of New York, he co-founded Eagle Academy Schools. A sought-after speaker and FOX News contributor, he inspires through advocacy and empowerment.
Jennifer Jones Austin
Jennifer Jones Austin, CEO of FPWA, advocates for equity and social justice. She led transformative policy changes, chaired the NYC Racial Justice Commission, and serves on the NYS Reparations Commission. An award-winning author and media contributor, her work reflects a deep commitment to racial and economic justice through faith and advocacy.
Special Tribute
Quincy Jones
Quincy Jones, a visionary, transcended genres, scoring films like The Color Purple and The Wiz and creating TV themes for Sanford and Son and The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. More than a producer, Quincy’s work with legends like Ray Charles and Michael Jackson defined eras—Thriller remains the best-selling album worldwide.
Beyond music, Quincy championed diversity and inspired future generations. His legacy endures in every note he crafted and in the lives he touched through his artistry.
Our Honorees
Celebrating honorees whose visionary leadership, advocacy, and commitment to justice and community empowerment inspire transformative change.
Dr. Clement Alexander Price Award
Lonnie G. Bunch III
Honoring Lonnie G. Bunch III, esteemed educator, historian, and Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, for his transformative contributions to preserving history and culture.
Servant Leadership Award
Rev. Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson
Honoring Rev. Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson, Senior Pastor of Grace Baptist Church, for his visionary leadership and steadfast commitment to faith and social justice.
Torchbearer Award
Rev. Dr. Herbert
Daughtry
Daughtry
Honoring Rev. Dr. Herbert Daughtry, National Presiding Minister Emeritus of The House of the Lord Churches, for his lifelong dedication to ministry, justice, and community empowerment.
Award For Academic Leadership
Dr. Lamont O. Repollet
Honoring Dr. Lamont O. Repollet, 18th President of Kean University, for his transformative leadership in education and commitment to student success and equity.
Public Safety Award
Stacey D. Stewart
Honoring Stacey D. Stewart, CEO of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), for her impactful leadership and unwavering dedication to saving lives and supporting families.
NJ State Senator Ronald Rice Award
Assemblywoman Shavonda E. Sumter
Assemblywoman Shavonda E. Sumter of New Jersey's 35th Legislative District, accepting the NJ State Senator Ronald Rice Award on behalf of the Black Legislative Caucus for their exceptional leadership and advocacy.