A. Philip Randolph “Gentle Warrior Awards” Returns as a Gala Cocktail Reception
The only museum of its kind to celebrate community labor leaders who uphold
the labor movement, agents of change
(Chicago) -- Presented by Wintrust, the National A. Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum (NAPRPPM) will mark its 27th anniversary by hosting the “Gentle Warrior Awards” Gala Cocktail Reception. The museum’s premiere fundraiser will take place Saturday, February 26, 2022 from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m at the Hyde Park Bank, 1525 East 53rd St. in Chicago.
“NAPRPPM museum is the only one of its kind in the world,” said museum’s founder Dr. Lyn Hughes. “We honor and celebrate exclusively the contributions of African Americans in America’s labor movement. That is precisely why we must preserve the history and continue to tell the full, authentic story of those who paved the way for African Americans in organized labor.”
The museum is the only one in existence that bears the name of A. Philip Randolph, founder of the first Black labor union in the nation, The Brotherhood of Sleeping Car (BSCP). The Porter’s union was the first Black union to be chartered under the American Federation of Labor (AFL) and the first Black union to win a collective bargaining agreement with major US corporation, the powerful Pullman company.
Randolph’s unshakable courage, sacrifice, and brilliant leadership removed barriers for Blacks in organized labor, and enabled the Porters to create the foundation for the Black middle class. As one of America's foremost labor and civil rights leaders, Randolph became known as the "Gentle Warrior."
Organizers of the Gentle Warrior Awards, a Black-Tie Gala Cocktail Reception will transform the non-traditional backdrop of a financial institution into an unforgettable affair complete with a red carpet, live entertainment by Emmy award winner and international vocalist Joan Collaso, dancing, delectable culinary bites and savory desserts.
The special guest host is Hosea Sanders of ABC 7 Chicago.
The Gentle Warrior Award is presented to individuals who exhibit the similar commitment, focus, and tenacity that Randolph displayed throughout his career.
This year’s Gentle Warrior Awardees are Tefere Gebre, Executive Vice President of the National AFL-CIO, and Donald Finn, Business Manager, IBEW Local 134.
The Change Agent Award is presented to those who have not only invoked positive change through action but have required it of others throughout the communities they serve.
This year’s Change Agent Awardees are Jonathan Swain, President of LINK Unlimited Scholars and President of Kimbark Beverage Shoppe; Alexandra Simms, President of APS & Associates; Mattie Butler, Founder and Executive Director of Woodlawn East Community and Neighbors; Nicholas Smith, 34th District State Representative; and Isreal Idonije, former NFL player and Founder of IF Charities.
“The pandemic has indeed impacted the way events are being held,” added Hughes. “The event has been scaled down in size, but will retain its Hollywood awards atmosphere. In addition, We want to ensure that our guests are safe, so proof of vaccination or negative COVID 19 test results will be required.”
The funds generated by this awards gala will contribute to the mobilization funds required to jump-start the museum's expansion project which is scheduled for spring 2022.
Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available via Eventbrite. For more information about NAPRPP, visit https://aprpullmanportermuseum.org/.
