“I created the Trumpet Awards about 24 years ago when I was working at Turner Broadcasting, a CNN operation, and wanted very much to present the contributions of African Americans in a very dignified way. I was tired of watching television and seeing [my] people [depicted] as buffoons, in comedic roles or just being silly. Our lives had not been told in full and I wanted to explore the possibility of educating our children, adults as well, on our rich past,” shares Xernona Clayton, president and CEO of the Trumpet Awards Foundation Inc. “Segregation and discrimination have done great harm to our society. We’re trying to dispel and change that by showcasing those who’ve made excellence their byword.”
The Trumpet Awards, which rivals Hollywood-based awards, is an Atlanta staple where dignitaries, tastemakers and culture zeitgeists gather every January, in the birthplace of the Civil Rights Movement. The awards show and its ancillary events, attract thousands from around the southeast and nationwide.
The Trumpet Foundation strives to “acknowledge the accomplishments of men and women who have significantly contributed to enhancing the quality of life for all … individuals and/or groups who augment the richness of this great global society by partnering with the cause of justice and equality of all.”
This year’s activities commence on Friday, Jan. 23, 2015, with a free race relations symposium, titled “The Continuing Quest for Equality,” which will be “an illuminating dialogue, community, civil rights and political leaders examine race relations in 2015” at the Ritz Carlton; on Saturday, Jan. 24, 2015, Tommy Hilfiger, Jamie Foxx, the Isley Brothers, Janelle Monáe and others will be honored at the 23rd Annual Trumpet Awards ceremony and immediately following is a sold-out concert, titled Soulful Ending, featuring the Bar-Kays, who are celebrating 50 years in the business.
What is the significance of the trumpet?
“The trumpet is an instrument that signifies dignity. And, you can’t blow a trumpet quietly unless you mute it. So it will always blare broadly, Clayton explains. “It aligns with my vision to loudly and clearly champion the cause I espouse. Everyone will hear [about] the people whose accomplishments have been overlooked.”
The Trumpet Awards is televised internationally in over 185 countries around the world. Tune in to TV One on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2015, to watch this year’s activities.
