Close Menu

    Inside the Truth Awards: Don Lemon, Jenifer Lewis and Sheryl Lee Ralph Shine at Powerful Night of Celebration

    Los Angeles, CA — March 24, 2026 — Better Brothers Los Angeles, in partnership with Emmy Award-winning actress Sheryl Lee Ralph’s (“Abbott Elementary,” “Moesha,” and Sister Act,) DIVA Foundation, celebrated the 12th Annual Truth Awards Weekend, culminating in a sold-out gala at The Beverly Hilton. Hosted by Vivica A. Fox (Set It Off, Independence Day, Is God Is), the ceremony honored trailblazing Black LGBTQ+ leaders and allies while reinforcing the organization’s commitment to community impact and cultural visibility.

    A major highlight of the evening was the announcement of an anonymous donation exceeding $100,000 to support Better Brothers Los Angeles’ scholarship program—marking one of the largest single contributions in the organization’s history and underscoring a shared investment in the next generation of Black LGBTQ+ leaders.

    The two-hour ceremony will make its broadcast debut on KTLA+ on Saturday, June 6 at 8:00 PM PT, bringing the celebration of Black LGBTQ+ excellence to a broader national audience.

    The 12th Annual Truth Awards brought together some of the most influential voices in entertainment, advocacy and community leadership for a powerful night honoring Black LGBTQ+ excellence. Held at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, the event celebrated trailblazers, allies and changemakers making a lasting impact.

    The glamorous 12th Annual Truth Awards took place on Saturday, March 21st at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, California, hosted by actress Vivica A. Fox. The organization continues its mission of inspiring and connecting the Black LGBTQ+ community in Southern California, with the Truth Awards serving as a major platform to celebrate leaders and allies making meaningful contributions.

    This year’s honorees included:

    Presenters included:

    Jerrie Johnson (“Survival of the Thickest” and “Harlem”), actor and writer

    Sheryl Lee Ralph, Emmy Award-winning actress and activist

    Karine Jean-Pierre, former White House Press Secretary and political strategist

    Cynthia Bailey (“Real Housewives of Atlanta,” “Celebrity Big Brother,” and “BMF”), model, entrepreneur, and television personality

    Terrell Carter (“Empire,” “Beauty in Black,” and “A House Divided”), actor and singer

    Claudia Jordan (“Real Housewives of Atlanta”), television and radio host

    Novi Brown (“Sistas” and “NCIS”), actress known for her work in television and film

    Steven G. Norfleet (“Beauty in Black,” “Interview With A Vampire,” and “Watchmen”), actor, playwright, and director

    Isis King (“America’s Next Top Model Finalist,” “When They See Us” and “With Love”), model, actress, and trailblazing Transgender advocate

    Jermelle Simon-Jones (“Animal Kingdom” and “The Upshaws”), actor and producer

    Dr. Keith Green was recognized for his lifelong dedication to advancing community-driven approaches to HIV prevention and care as Executive Director of the Chicago Black Gay Men’s Caucus. ViiV Healthcare, the only pharmaceutical company solely focused on HIV, served as the presenting sponsor. Through partnerships and advocacy, the organization continues to support efforts aimed at ending the HIV epidemic while uplifting voices within the Black LGBTQ+ community.

    Photo Courtesy of  Better Brothers LA

    Dr. Keith Green emphasized that his recognition at the Truth Awards represents the collective efforts of the community he serves, highlighting the ongoing mission to ensure Black gay, bisexual and same-gender-loving men impacted by HIV have access to essential resources like education, prevention and treatment. He underscored the importance of centering the voices of those most affected while building strong partnerships, such as his work with ViiV Healthcare, to drive meaningful progress and break down barriers in the fight to end the HIV epidemic.

    Photo Courtesy of  Better Brothers LA

    Randevyn Piérre reaffirmed ViiV Healthcare’s commitment to supporting the Black LGBTQ+ community through continued partnership with the Truth Awards, emphasizing the company’s mission to help create a brighter, HIV-free future. He highlighted the role of innovation, including long-acting treatments, alongside community-driven collaboration with leaders like Dr. Keith Green, as essential components in advancing prevention, care and long-term impact.

    Investing in the Next Generation

    Proceeds from the weekend directly support Better Brothers Los Angeles’ scholarship initiative. This year’s recipients include:

    Alviana Anderson, Jack Wilson, Tyler Patterson, Anthony Wilson, Marquis Robertson, Ava-Sophia Noncent, Alexandra Price, and Quince Robinson—an inspiring group of students representing the future of Black LGBTQ+ leadership across industries.

    The newly announced anonymous gift further expands the organization’s ability to provide critical financial support, mentorship, and career pathways for Black LGBTQ+ youth nationwide.