The Colorado Association of Black Journalists (CABJ) was recently revived after an eight-year hiatus. On March 2, the organization hosted an award ceremony and fundraising reception in Denver’s Cableland event space to celebrate outstanding journalism and empower future generations of community leaders.
A Night of Recognition & Inspiration
As the ceremony began, guests were welcomed by CABJ President, Micah Smith, who highlighted the organization’s renewed focus. “When you give your heart and soul to something, you get a little nervous when it starts to come to fruition and I recognize I didn’t do it alone, I did it with so many people including our board,” she remarked. She emphasized CABJ’s dedication to creating a safe space for Black journalists, and role in creating community connections and pathways to resources for the next generation of media professionals.
Journalist and Race & Culture Contributor at 9News KUSA, Shay “Shay J” Johnson, served as the emcee for the evening. She stated, “The success of the CABJ Award Fundraiser shines as a beacon of unity, empowerment and progress, illuminating the path for future generations of Black journalists to thrive and make an indelible mark on the world of media. In the room, we witnessed a tapestry of excellence woven across generations, each thread representing a legacy of brilliance and achievement. Together, we celebrate the rich heritage and boundless potential of multi-generational excellence.”
Laughter filled the room as comedian Shanel Hughes kicked off the awards presentation. Similar to the White House Correspondents Dinner, Shanel joked about the industry leaders in attendance, making light of the fact that the room was filled with people who could research her and do an exposé. She brought humor to a range of topics, including politics, parenting, reparations and even wild geese.
Honoring Community Leaders and Media Excellence
Civil Rights Activism Award: Portia Prescott, Rocky Mountain NAACP President, was recognized for shining a light on injustices and advocating for representation in the media.
Community Service Award: Charleszine “Terry” Nelson and Jameka Lewis of the Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library were honored for their dedication to community empowerment through the preservation of Black history.
Cultural Competence Award: Patricia Cameron, founder of the nonprofit, Blackpackers, was celebrated for her work in promoting inclusivity and access to Colorado’s outdoor spaces.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award: The Urban Leadership Foundation of Colorado received recognition for its facilitation of leadership training programs.
Higher Education Institution of the Year Awards: Colorado College and Metropolitan State University of Denver were lauded for their commitment to supporting aspiring journalists from diverse backgrounds.
Champion of Justice Awards: Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck LLP and Rathod Mohamedbhai LLC were presented with awards for providing pro bono legal work supporting social justice causes.
Journalist of the Year Award: Chandra Thomas Whitfield of Colorado Public Radio (CPR) was honored for her work in uncovering underreported stories and amplifying marginalized voices.
Media Organization of the Year Award: CPR was recognized for its dedication to the production of diverse journalism that reflects the community it serves. Sherkiyah Wedgeworth, accepted on their behalf and said, “I am a return on your investment as a former CABJ scholarship recipient.”
Legacy Award: Rosalind “Bee” Harris, Denver Urban Spectrum Founder and Publisher, was honored for her visionary spirit and dedication to expanding the voice of Colorado’s communities.
Legacy Award: Sandra Dillard, a founding member of NABJ, was acknowledged for her pioneering work in journalism and unwavering belief that journalists can change the world for the better.
The ceremony culminated with a presentation of Legacy Awards by National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) President, Ken Lemon, who founded the Charlotte Area Association of Black Journalists (CAABJ). “I am home,” he said. “Diversity in journalism is not merely a matter of political correctness or tokenism. It is essential to democracy itself.”
After closing remarks and an expression of gratitude to attendees, sponsors and honorees, a cocktail hour ensued, featuring sounds by DJ Al Your Pal, food by Two Sistahs Eats and beverages by Liquor’s Quicker.
The inaugural event raised $15,000 for CABJ’s journalism scholarship, and renewed a call to action for continued support and community engagement with the organization.
Editor’s Note: For more information about membership and scholarships visit www.cabj5280.org.
