Celebrating Images of Excellence

For the last 35 years, the NAACP Image Awards have recognized the many talented people of color who have excelled at the highest levels of the entertainment and literary fields. This year, of course, was no different.

The theme for 2004 was "Salute to Excellence," and awards were presented in 35 categories. Four honorary awards were given to recognize those who have gone above and beyond in their respected fields.

The world-renowned spiritual leader, Bishop T.D. Jakes, received the President's Award, given to individuals who "exemplify high standards of character, conviction and achievement."

In addition to being pastor of The Potter's House in Dallas - one of the fastest growing churches in the nation - Jakes is also a bestselling author, a playwright and a music producer.

"Bishop Thomas D. Jakes has been called the 'Shepherd to the shattered,' as he reaches out to the poor and the rich, the young and old; those behind bars, those in the classroom, people in the inner-city and people in the suburbs," said NAACP President and CEO Kweisi Mfume in a statement. In his acceptance speech, Jakes said, "To be honored by my own people, particularly the NAACP, is especially significant."

The Dave Matthews Band received the Chairman's Award, which is given for "distinguished service and dignified representation of people of color."

The band was awarded for its commitment to social and environmental causes. Members have donated millions of dollars to various organizations, working consistently to raise money for AIDS, education and local parks.

NAACP Chairman Julian Bond said, "Dave Matthews Band demonstrated what commitment means in an artist - with their music and their generosity, they have made a difference in the lives of many." Bond added: "To see and hear them is to recognize great talent; to learn of their good deeds is to recognize they are good souls."

The Dave Matthews Band was pleased with the recognition. "It is a great honor to us that an institution with the history and accomplishments of the NAACP has chosen to recognize our actions. We will always greatly value this award."

Because of the NAACP's history and accomplishments, many people were baffled by the nomination of R. Kelly for his album Chocolate Factory in the Outstanding Album category. Though Kelly's album did not win, the nomination sparked controversy. Many wondered why the R&B singer, who is awaiting trial on charges of having sex with an underage girl, was nominated for an Image Award by the nation's leading civil rights organization.

The flak over Kelly's nomination caused NAACP officials to consider a new nominating process for the awards.

Currently, the nominating committee of 300 is composed of members of both the NAACP and the entertainment industry. Under the proposal being considered, the committee would include only NAACP leaders and members. NAACP leaders are hoping this change will ensure the integrity of the awards in the future.

"For some time it has concerned me that too often Image Award nominees fail to meet the standards for positive images on which the program was created," Mfume said in a statement. "It's important that Image Award nominees be able to do more than sing, dance, write and act."

Other highlights of the evening included singer Beyonce being named Entertainer of the Year and legendary musician Ray Charles's induction into the NAACP's Hall of Fame. Luther Vandross, who has been recuperating from a stroke, was the night's big winner with four awards.

- Betsy Adeboyejo

Copyright Crisis Publishing Company, Incorporated May/Jun 2004
Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning Company. All rights Reserved