Celebrating

60 years of

legacy

Legacy Awards Gala

March 28, 2025

Washington, DC

Since 1964, The Washington Informer has been a trusted voice for our community, documenting the struggles and triumphs that have shaped Washington, DC and the nation. From the March on Washington to the historic inauguration of President Barack Obama, we’ve educated, informed, and celebrated the stories of African Americans, preserving their legacy at the heart of history.

“If it is to be, it is up to me.”

Dr. Calvin W. Rolark, FOUNDER, THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

CULTURE

Join us for our Legacy Anniversary Celebration!

Through the Washington Informer Charities, we host programs like the Citywide Spelling Bee, the Martin Luther King Jr. Parade, and the African American Heritage Tour to educate, connect, and inspire our community, while also creating opportunities for aspiring journalists to carry our mission into the future.

As we celebrate 60 years, we build on a firm foundation, honoring our legacy while uplifting the leaders of tomorrow.

CELEBRATE

THE LEGACY AWARDS GALA & PHOTO EXHIBITION

MARCH 28, 2025  |  5:30 PM
MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. MEMORIAL LIBRARY, WASHINGTON DC

PROCEEDS WILL BENEFIT THE WASHINGTON INFORMER CHARITIES

DRESS CODE: CREATIVE BLACK TIE OR ELEVATED CASUAL

COMPLIMENTARY EVENT VALET PARKING SPONSORED BY BZB INTERNATIONAL

 

GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY!

Our 60th Anniversary Legacy Gala will be a vibrant celebration in Washington, DC bringing together leaders, changemakers, and community voices to honor our rich history and inspire the next generation. This exciting event will spotlight our Legacy Award honorees, who have made lasting contributions to our community. The gala will also feature our groundbreaking photo exhibit, special performances, live music, and a DJ, along with a savory selection of culturally-inspired food, fine wine, and delectable desserts, for a fun and festive evening!
Join us as we honor the following individuals and businesses that have made a lasting impact in our community while carrying on a family legacy:

LEGACY HONOREES

Host, Denise Rolark Barnes, Publisher, The Washington Informer
Moderator, Molette Green, News Anchor, NBC News4

Honorees
Kamal Ali, Owner, Ben’s Chili Bowl
Stacie Lee Banks, President, Lee’s Flower Shop
Adam Levin, Co-owner, Chuck Levin’s Washington Music Center
Stefan Lockridge, Educator, Kipp DC
Cheryl Lofton, President & CEO, Cheryl Lofton & Associates
B. Doyle Mitchell, Jr., President & CEO, Industrial Bank

Mistress of Ceremonies, Micheline Bowman

“Following in the footsteps of my Dad, it is important to me to promote positive news about the Black community...”

—DENISE ROLARK-BARNES

Publisher, THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

“Following in the footsteps of my Dad, it is important to me to promote positive news about the Black community...”

—DENISE ROLARK-BARNES

Publisher, THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

VISION

THANK YOU TO
OUR SPONSORS

INFORMER SPONSORS

CALVIN ROLARK SPONSORS

WILHELMINA ROLARK SPONSORS 

SUPPORTERS

Jan Du Plain/
Du Plain Global Enterprises Inc.

L. S. Caldwell & Associates, Inc

Lanta Evans-Motte/ LEM Financial Services

Michael & Shevry Lassiter

SPONSOR OUR ANNIVERSARY GALA!

Sponsoring our 60th Anniversary Legacy Gala taking place on March 28, 2025 at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library is a unique opportunity to connect with an informed and influential community.

With 35,000 weekly print readers, 15,000 email subscribers, and over 1.1 million monthly digital impressions, your brand will stand out among decision-makers and the broader community who trust The Washington Informer.

Your sponsorship increases your visibility and supports a meaningful cause. Proceeds from the gala benefit our nonprofit, Washington Informer Charities. Customized packages provide direct engagement with our audience, expanding your brand’s exposure. Partner with us for a celebration that honors history, inspires the future, and connects you with a vibrant community.

Contact Us to Learn More:

Ron Burke
Director of Advertising & Marketing rburke@washingtoninformer.com
202.903.6003

DOWNLOAD OUR SPONSORSHIP BROCHURE

“I love serving people. I love helping people empower themselves.”

—MAYOR MARION BARRY

“I love serving people. I love helping people empower themselves.”

—MAYOR MARION BARRY

community

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