In celebration of the ever-growing diversity in television, The Paley Center for Media will pay homage to the various achievements of African-Americans who have contributed to the medium and have influenced culture and social change during a special tribute event in New York City.
The prestigious May 13 black tie event -- which will include guests Oprah Winfrey, Mara Brock Akil, Cicely Tyson, Diahann Carroll, Lee Daniels and Phylicia Rashad among others – will recognize some of the most historical milestones over the last seven decades, including the 35th anniversary of the launch of BET and the 50th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act.
“Television, more than any other medium, has paved the way for social change, and this momentous African-American tribute is a great expression of the Paley Center’s mission to highlight the critical role of media within our society,” Maureen J. Reidy, President and CEO of the Paley Center for Media stated in a press release.
“The renowned Paley Archive will come to life during our salute with an expanded African-American media collection of iconic trailblazers and critically acclaimed programs of historical importance spanning seven decades.”
Among the many names joining Reidy and the event’s production team will be noted Harvard scholar, social critic and filmmaker, Henry Louis Gates, Jr., who is honored to serve as the Paley Center tribute’s special advisor.
“I am honored to participate in The Paley Center for Media’s remarkable tribute to African-American achievements in television to showcase the rich diversity of expression and creativity over seventy years. Gates said in the release. “The evening will be historic in spotlighting television’s important cultural impact.”
For additional info on the Paley Center’s tribute to African-American Achievements in Television click here.
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