With the ever rising negative news statistics on black male achievement, Gabriel Rozier decided to create an event to honor black men for their community service and advocacy. Rozier is the founder of Black Men Walking (BMW), an organization exclusively designed to promote the social, mental and emotional well-being of males in the black community. During the year, the organization hosts a series of programs, meetings, and events geared to uplift, encourage and highlight black males in the local area. “We recognize the need for the restoration of the black man’s value within his community and home and are committed to assisting in the process of achieving this goal,” said Rozier.
The public votes on six categories: education, arts, medicine, law, business and sports. The lifetime achievement award is the lone award voted on by board members. After Rozier and his team viewed the Ax Handle Sunday documentary featuring Civil Rights activist Alton Yates, hands quickly cast their votes for Yates to receive the Lifetime Achievement award. “My team and I identify with Yates struggle and we always look for opportunities to bridge the gap between generations and we want to leave a legacy for the up and coming black male leaders and achievers,” elaborated Rozier. Guests enjoyed live music, violin soloist and soul food for their palates. The event was live streamed through social media entities. Other honorees included Black Men Walking awardees: Corey Redden (Education), Kristopher Sawyer (Business), James Terrell (Law), Ivan Jennings (Sports), Chris Clark (Art) and Don Jackson (Medicine). Shown is Black Men Walking Organizer Gabriel Rozier with Lifetime Achievement Awardee Alton Yates.
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