Jotoka Eaddy and Essence Communications Recognized at 56th NAACP Image Awards
At the upcoming 56th NAACP Image Awards Creative Honors ceremony on February 21st in Los Angeles, Jotaksa Eaddy and Essence Communications will receive special recognition.
Eaddy will be honored with the Social Justice award, renamed in memory of civil rights activist Mildred Bond Roxborough. The award highlights her dedication to justice, which has inspired generations. Roxborough herself has served NAACP for over seven decades.
Boykin-Towns, NAACP Board of Directors vice chair, emphasized Eaddy's impact as a Black woman leader advocating for Black communities and women specifically. She has ignited a movement that transforms lives.
In 2020, Eaddy founded #WinWithBlackWomen, an intersectional group supporting Black women in various fields. Under her leadership, the movement has organized voter mobilizations and fundraising efforts, reaching over 100,000 voters and raising over $2.6 million.
Essence Communications will receive the Vanguard Award for Fashion, recognizing their contributions to cultural change. Previous honorees include June Ambrose and Ruth E. Carter.
Essence magazine, founded in 1970, has consistently amplified Black women's voices and celebrated their accomplishments. The ESSENCE Festival of Culture has become a major event showcasing Black music, culture, and business.
"Before inclusivity became a trend, Essence was already championing our community's strength and culture," said Boykin-Towns. "We honor Essence for their commitment to empowering Black women."
The 56th NAACP Image Awards will broadcast live on February 22nd on BET and CBS. Non-televised categories will be announced at an earlier date.