September 27th, 2009

Recap: President Barack Obama Speaks at The Phoenix Awards Annual Dinner

Written by DC Fab

U.S. President Barack Obama waves with first lady Michelle Obama as they arrive at the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation

The ladies of The Fab Empire were in the building during the most anticipated event during Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Week 2009. Every year, it’s the most fabulous event where our representatives honor people in our communities that have bettered society. This year’s honoree’s included, Danny Glover, The Honorable Calvin Smyre, Senator Edward M. (Ted) Kennedy, whose son emotionally accepted the award on his behalf, Ambassador Susan E. Rice, Cicely Tyson, Sheryl Lee Ralph and Wyclef Jean.

The evening was hosted by Susan Taylor, former editor of Essence who looked stunning in an orange wrap dress, and actor Jeffery Wright, a native of D.C.

Although I thought the evening was a little drawn out, I was definitely entertained by the guests sitting at my table, gospel singer Yolanda Adams and football player Emmitt Smith. It was an interesting mix of table talk to say the least.

With a great date at my side (my dad Stan), the highlight of the night was when President Barack Obama along with First Lady Michelle Obama came to address the gala. It was my first time hearing him so I was definitely a little excited. The President, of course, used this time to push ideas on his political agenda, including passing health care reform this year and education reform. He received several standing ovations throughout his speech, proving he was probably preaching to the choir.

As I was asking Yolanda Adams, off the record, why she supported the CBC, she returned the question. I told her, these people are my lawmakers, the people that can really affect how I live my life and are sometimes the gatekeepers to the betterment of my community. I went on to say that it’s a shame that more natives of D.C. weren’t involved in the weekend.

Pics below:

Yolanda Adams poses with DC Fab! I love that she's just as tall as me!

Emmitt Smith also sat at my table with his beautiful wife Pat

Jeffery Wright and Susan Taylor host the evening

DC Fab! with CNN commentator Roland Martin *my camera didn't flash, ugh*

Danny Glover accepting his award

Cecily Tyson accepting her award

Sheryl Lee Ralph started her acceptance speech with a song

Charlie Rangel presents the award to Wyclef Jean

...and I weaseled a picture before he jetted off to Lux Lounge

Al Sharpton walking out of the gala...he took Lisa-Raye as his date

My grainy little pic of President Obama addressing the gala

In DC Fab Al Sharpton, Congressional Black Caucus Weekend 2009, Emmitt Smith, First Lady Michelle Obama, President Barack Obama, ROLAND MARTIN, Wyclef Jean, Yolanda Adams

5 Comments »

1. great coverage !
   you look great DCFAb!
   I’m sure DC natives would love to attend the events however they are really not that affordable
   this gala was almost $1,000..not really in the budget for the poor……
   Hopefully they give away X amount of tix for those who would truly benefit

   by cocochanel31

2. I watched Obama’s speech at the CBC. As an American who works and tries hard to do the right thing with my country and my fellow Americans, I couldn’t help but feel as though I was wrong and at fault for the wows of the Black American, “(Afro-American)”, as mentioned in his speech.
   I say to Mr. Obama, “Free the Black American”!
   It is not your job to drive a wedge between Black and White Americans. If you want to help the Black American, free him from the title of “Afro-American”. Give him pride in the title of Black American. The title of Afro-American came from the 60s movement, creating defiance and animosity against Whites in general. This approach is not needed in todays America. Mr. Obama, everything you have ever been taught about race is wrong! If you want to learn how to address the race issue, study the relationship and team effort of NFL players. It is truly amazing to watch the way these players work together!!!

   Curtis Cranfield

   by Curtis Cranfield

3. My fiance, myself, along with our colleagues attended the Phoenix dinner Saturday night. My beautiful, black people were out in force this weekend. I felt a sense of pride when Barack and Michelle came out on stage, but got scared when they moved him from the “left” to the “right” podium. I thought he was leaving already!!! Lol. I definitely loved the part of the speech when Barack got on us parents for praising B’s on a report card instead of pushing for A’s. All in all, it was a wonderful evening.

   by Mr. Patrick

4. Let me correct myself. They moved Barack from the “right” to the “left” podium.

   by Mr. Patrick

5. Thanks I learned some good things by stopping by here today.

   by Katina Laurance

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