By Reuben Greene
Special to the AFRO
On Nov. 17, a radiant spirit of strength and elegance illuminated Martin’s West in Baltimore as the Black Girls Vote Sixth Annual Ball unfolded in grandeur. The event, a celebration of civic engagement and empowerment, stood out not only for its glamorous atmosphere but also for the meaningful impact it aimed to achieve.
Guests donned a striking variety of evening gowns and impeccably tailored suits, mirroring the refined ambiance of the event. The venue was decorated with fresh flowers, an LED reflective dance floor and a Black Girls Vote marquee with syncopated lights.
Mistress of ceremony, Gia Peppers welcomed elected officials, VIP guests and attendees.
Speakers for the evening included Gov. Wes Moore accompanied by his wife, first lady Dawn Moore. Moore presented a Governor’s Citation to the organization’s founder, Nykidra “Nyki” Robinson.
“Be it known, because of your demonstration of high integrity and ability meriting our great trust and respect, we are most pleased to award you the Governor’s Citation in appreciation of your outstanding services to the citizens of the great state of Maryland,” Moore quoted aloud from the citation.
“I am extremely grateful to be the 63rd governor of this state because Black girls vote,” Moore further said, acknowledging the importance of Black female voters. “The beauty of this organization isn’t about who we’re voting for but what we’re voting for.”
Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott shared insights on civic participation, urging attendees to be catalysts for change in their communities.
“For eight years BGV has been amplifying the voices of the greatest creation God has ever given us, Black women,” Scott said. “Our world owes a debt of gratitude to Black women that we will never get to repay. With the 2024 vote around the corner, the future of our city, state and country is in the hands of Black women. For my money, there are no other hands I would want it in.”
The night was filled with captivating performances, featuring a musical offering by violinist Joy Black, spoken word by poet Eriona Birts, a solo dance performance by Gabrielle Amyssaire and live music by the Be’la Dona Band.
Awards were presented to outstanding Black women that have made significant contributions to the empowerment of BGV within the political sphere and business. The Positive Impact Award was given to Jotaka Eddy, founder of Full Circle Strategies, LLC. The Distinguished Leader Award recipient was Latosha Brown, co-founder, Black Voter Matter. Lastly, the Trailblazer Award was presented to Angela Alsobrooks, county executive, Prince George’s County, Md.
The AFRO spoke with attendees about the evening and what the event meant to them.
“Tonight, we didn’t just dance under the dazzling lights; we stood together as a community, empowering the voices that will shape our future,” said Rita Flowers.
“Attending the Black Girls Vote Sixth Annual Ball was nothing short of monumental,” said Shawana Kennedy. “The pride I feel in supporting this event goes beyond the glitz and glamor. It’s rooted in the organization’s unwavering commitment to uplifting young Black women.”
Belinda Cook said she was inspired to make her own contributions toward her community. “Being in the presence of trailblazers, and their stories have become the catalyst for my own journey towards positive impact.”
For more information about the Black Girls Vote organization, go to www.blackgirlsvote.com.