Congresswoman Maxine Waters will receive the National Council of Negro Women’s highest honor at its historic 90th anniversary gala. The Crystal Chair Award recognizes Waters’ lifetime of service protecting freedom and pursuing excellence in her career. NCNW President and CEO Shavon Arline-Bradley announced the honor as part of the organization’s 19th Biennial Uncommon Height Honors Gala.
The December 6 celebration marks a milestone year for the historic nonprofit coalition founded by Mary McLeod Bethune in 1935. For the first time in gala history, NCNW will honor seven individuals across multiple categories. Waters, who has served in the U.S. House of Representatives since 1991, headlines the prestigious list of honorees.
Crystal Chair Award Honors Legacy of Dr. Dorothy Height
The Crystal Chair Award carries special significance as NCNW’s most prestigious recognition. The honor celebrates individuals who demonstrate lifetime dedication to humanity and career excellence. The award specifically honors the legacy of Dr. Dorothy Irene Height, who led the organization for 40 years.
Height became famous for her contributions to economic justice, civil rights, and education advocacy. Her leadership transformed NCNW into a powerful force for Black women’s advancement. Waters follows in Height’s footsteps with her own decades of advocacy and legislative accomplishments.
Seven Award Categories Recognize Multiple Facets of Black Excellence
NCNW expanded its honors this year to celebrate excellence across various sectors. “We decided to honor every facet of our institution,” Bradley explained to BLACK ENTERPRISE. The organization created new award categories to recognize emerging leaders and journalists facing contemporary challenges.
The Change Maker Award will honor young women under age 30 who demonstrate exceptional leadership potential. Additionally, the Uncommon Journalist Award recognizes media professionals who continue their work despite facing attacks. These categories reflect NCNW’s commitment to supporting Black excellence across generations and professions.
Gala Theme Addresses Attacks on Black Families and Communities
This year’s gala carries particular urgency as Black institutions face unprecedented threats. “Our theme focuses on Black families and Black America being under attack,” Bradley stated. The organization uses the celebration to highlight resilience while acknowledging current challenges facing Black communities.
NCNW’s intention extends beyond celebration to active resistance and support. “Our intention is to celebrate them,” Bradley emphasized regarding the honorees and community members. The gala provides a platform to acknowledge those fighting for Black advancement during difficult times.
NCNW’s 90-Year Legacy Reaches Over 2 Million People
The National Council of Negro Women operates as an “organization of organizations” with remarkable reach. The coalition comprises nearly 400 campus and community-based sections across the country. Additionally, 37 national women’s organizations participate in NCNW’s network and initiatives.
Through this extensive structure, NCNW enlightens, inspires, and connects more than 2 million women and men. The organization’s influence extends far beyond its direct membership through partnerships and programming. This 90th anniversary celebration honors nine decades of continuous service to Black communities nationwide.
DEI Program Attacks Make NCNW’s Work More Critical Than Ever
Bradley emphasized that the gala and NCNW’s work carry heightened importance in 2025. Black historic institutions, policies, and protective measures face systematic threats under current political leadership. These attacks target the progress that organizations like NCNW fought decades to achieve.
President Donald Trump signed multiple executive orders targeting diversity, equity, and inclusion programs during his first week. These orders eliminated diverse and equitable initiatives in both public and private sectors. Subsequently, new barriers emerged for Black Americans and other marginalized groups seeking opportunities and advancement.
Black Women Face Unprecedented Unemployment Crisis
Current economic conditions disproportionately impact Black women across the nation. The unemployment rate for Black women reached 7.5%, representing a crisis-level disparity. Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley called on the Federal Reserve to take immediate action addressing this emergency.
These statistics demonstrate the urgent need for organizations like NCNW to continue advocacy work. Economic security remains fundamental to Black families’ wellbeing and community stability. The rising unemployment figures underscore systemic barriers that persist despite decades of civil rights progress.
NCNW President Links Black Excellence to Systemic Threat Perception
Bradley offered powerful analysis of why Black communities face intensified attacks currently. “In this moment, we have realized that the Black community, Black women particularly, are a threat to society,” she stated. She explained that Black excellence exposes underlying mediocrity within American systems.
“Our excellence has exposed the mediocrity of our system in this country,” Bradley continued. This observation connects current backlash against DEI programs to deeper fears about Black achievement. When Black people succeed, it challenges narratives that justify inequality and systemic barriers.
Resilience and Innovation Define Black Community Response
Bradley called for activation and strategic response rather than passive acceptance of current attacks. “In this time, we’ve got to activate,” she emphasized to the Black community. History provides both blueprint and inspiration for navigating present challenges effectively.
“Our history tells us not only that we are resilient, but we’re innovative and creative,” Bradley reminded audiences. These qualities enabled Black communities to survive and thrive despite centuries of oppression and discrimination. The same resilience and innovation will guide responses to contemporary threats and obstacles.
Gala Fundraising Supports Scholarships and Direct Services
The Uncommon Height Honors Gala serves purposes beyond celebration and recognition. Funding raised during the event directly supports NCNW’s programming and on-the-ground services. These resources enable the organization to continue providing crucial assistance to Black women and families.
Scholarships represent a significant portion of programs funded through gala proceeds. Educational access remains central to NCNW’s mission of advancing Black women’s opportunities. The organization’s direct services address immediate needs while investing in long-term community development.
Emmy Winner and Legendary DJ to Host Historic Celebration
Emmy Award-winning anchor Linsey Davis will serve as host for the December 6 gala. Her journalism background aligns perfectly with the event’s theme highlighting journalists under attack. Davis brings credibility and gravitas to the milestone celebration.
Legendary entertainer DJ D-Nice will serve as emcee, bringing energy and cultural connection to the evening. His involvement ensures the celebration incorporates contemporary Black culture alongside historical recognition. The pairing of Davis and D-Nice creates balance between formal honors and joyful celebration.
Leadership Team Guides NCNW Through Critical Moment
This marks the second gala under Bradley’s leadership as NCNW President and CEO. She works alongside NCNW Chair Dr. A. Lois Keith to guide the organization through challenging times. Their leadership emphasizes both honoring legacy and adapting to contemporary needs.
Event co-chairs Dr. Johnnetta Betsch Cole and Carla Harris bring additional expertise and influence. Cole’s background in education and museum leadership complements Harris’ financial sector experience. Together, the leadership team represents diverse expertise united in advancing Black women’s progress.