According to official press release (March 4, 2025), In a powerful tribute to resilience, authenticity, and community spirit, Better Brothers Los Angeles (BBLA) and The DIVA Foundation are excited to announce an esteemed lineup of honorees for the highly anticipated 11th Annual Truth Awards, powered by ViiV. Scheduled for Saturday, March 15th, the elegant Beverly Hilton Hotel will be the backdrop for this prestigious event, unfolding from 5:30 PM to 11:00 PM. Attendees can expect a heartfelt celebration of Black Queer Excellence, highlighting the profound and transformative impact this community has had on popular culture, public policy, and the arts.
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Friday, March 14, 2025, at 7:00 PM at The Aster in Hollywood, the ‘Passing the Torch’ awards ceremony will pay homage to the next generation by celebrating four emerging leaders- James Bland, Preston Mitchum, Amber Whittington, and Terell Grice who exemplify excellence in their respective fields.
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The celebration of excellence continues on Saturday, March 15, 2025, with the 11th Annual Truth Awards at the Beverly Hilton Hotel at 5:30 PM.
This year’s gala will honor the exceptional achievements of notable figures within the LGBTQ+ community, including Academy Award-nominated director, producer, and screenwriter Lee Daniels, who will be presented with the coveted Lifetime Achievement Award. Daniels, known for his groundbreaking work in film and television, including the critically acclaimed movie “Precious” and the hit series “Empire” and “Star”, has consistently pushed the boundaries of storytelling and representation. His contributions have redefined cinematic norms and paved the way for future generations of diverse storytellers.
Additionally, Wendy Raquel Robinson, a two-time Emmy Award-winning producer, actress, philanthropist, recipient of the NAACP Image Award, and co-founder of Amazing Grace Conservatory, is being honored with the Ally Award for her steadfast commitment to advocating for LGBTQ+ rights. Known for her roles in iconic television series such as “The Steve Harvey Show,” “The Game,” and “Poppa’s House,” Robinson has actively used her platform to raise awareness and support for LGBTQ+ issues. Her efforts highlight the significance of allyship in promoting solidarity within the community.
More awards, more performances, and an afterparty not to be missed. Get Tickets!
In alignment with Better Brothers Los Angeles’ (BBLA) mission to advance the educational aspirations of the Black LGBTQ+ community, the Truth Awards ceremony will also highlight the organization’s significant investment in future leaders. Since its inception, BBLA’s scholarship program has awarded over $300,000 in tuition assistance. During the event, scholarships ranging from $3,000 to $5,000 will be awarded, further empowering students to achieve their academic goals. To support BBLA’s ongoing commitment to the Black LGBTQ+ community, tax-deductible donations can be made to the Impact Fund at givebutter.com/bbla.
About Better Brothers Los Angeles (BBLA): Better Brothers Los Angeles (BBLA) was created to provide spaces for members of the Black LGBTQ+ community to network, socialize, and be BETTER – at life, love, and community. Developing a sense of community has been challenging for some within our community, given the cultural and religious opposition to our orientation and gender identity. As those challenges have receded in mainstream society, they still present significant difficulties and sometimes constrain healthy well-being. Since our inception, BBLA has sponsored cultural, informational, recreational, and social/networking events. We continue to support and create opportunities that increase community confidence and pride.
About The Diva Foundation: The DIVA Foundation — founded in 1990 by Emmy-winning actress and HIV/AIDS advocate Sheryl Lee Ralph — is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, created as a living memorial to the many friends she lost to HIV/AIDS as an original cast member of the Broadway musical “Dreamgirls,” and because she was concerned for the threat HIV/AIDS posed to women and children. Over the years, the DIVA Foundation has worked to break the silence, erase the stigma still connected to HIV/AIDS, and encourage people to get tested to know their HIV status.
