Entertainment News
The 34th annual LA Black Pride (LABP) returns to Los Angeles during the 4th of July weekend to celebrate all things Black and queer. Today, LABP announced rapper Doechii will headline CROWN ‘A Mini Concert Series,’ at The Vermont on Friday, June 30th, from 9 p.m. - 3 a.m. There will also be a special performance from Keon Brunson and HBO Max's "Legendary" season 3 winner Lolita Leopard.
In addition, actress LisaRaye McCoy will host LEGACY "Player's Club" Edition / Finale at HEART Weho on Sunday, July 2nd. The event is from 9 PM - 3 AM. Greg Mathis, Jr. and Elliott Cooper from E!’s hit series “Mathis Family Matters” will host the CLSQ Kickoff Celebration at Chapel at the Abbey on Thursday, June 29th, from 10 p.m. - 2 a.m.
Recently, LABP announced Daytime Emmy Award-nominated actress, singer and songwriter Raven-Symoné will be the recipient of this year’s Jewel Thais-Williams Trailblazer Award for her undeniable contributions and impact on music, TV/film and culture at ONE "Mega Party" on July 1st at Catch One from 9 p.m. - 3 a.m.
The Jewel-Thais Williams Trailblazer Award is given to a queer or ally woman of color who is breaking barriers and creating visibility for queer and transgender individuals through arts, media and community building. Last year’s recipient was Daytime Award-winning actress Niecy Nash.
This year’s theme, #MyBlackIsGold, is more than a mission; it’s a mantra according to LA Black Pride organizers. It’s an affirmation that we are worthy of equity and the pure joy of simply being and loving who we are. To highlight the queer individuals who are making an impact in business, fashion, TV and culture, LABP partnered with Emil Wilbekin’s nonprofit organization Native Son for it’s #MyBlackIsGold social campaign.
Every Tuesday, beginning on June 6th and ending on June 20th, at 10 AM ET, Native Son will unveil a series of black and white portraits taken by Kadeem Johnson (@kjohn_lasoul) on its IG page. There are 17 in total.
The first installment included portraits of Brandon Anthony (Founder & CEO, BBE Group; Executive Director, LABP); Casey “iCon” Billingsley (Celebrity Stylist); Donnie Hugh (Actor / Filmmaker); Gerald Garth (Executive Director, Amaad Institute; President, LA Pride); Kevin Stuckey (Senior Manager, Multicultural Community, Netflix); Yuriel “Miss Shalae” Young (#1 Beyoncé Tribute Artist; Iconic Overall Founder Mother Basquiat); and Zeus Views (Model / Photographer).
Produced by BBE Group, each year LABP reflects on the year's past and the people and pioneers that have paved the way. This year's #MyBlackIsGold events and experiences will celebrate black queer and trans beauty, intelligence and achievements.
For more information on LA Black Pride's event lineup visit blackpridela.com.