Today, NAACP and BET have announced that actress, producer, and best-selling author Gabrielle Union-Wade and three-time NBA Champion entrepreneur and producer, Dwyane Wade will receive the prestigious President’s Award during the 54th NAACP Image Awards on February 25.
The Wade Family Foundation provides relief to marginalized communities in need, helping to advance racial justice and LGBTQ equality. The Wades have made headlines for their philanthropic efforts to support organizations providing healthcare for the LGBTQ community. The couple has also worked to help raise money for the LGBTQ nonprofit GLSEN, which is dedicated to ending bullying and discrimination in schools. The Wade Family Foundation provides relief to marginalized communities in need, helping to advance racial justice and LGBTQ equality.
“We’re thrilled to present this award to Gabrielle Union-Wade and Dwyane Wade who together have consistently utilized their platforms to advance social justice and raise awareness to the inequalities existing in our country,” said Derrick Johnson, President and CEO of the NAACP. “We’re proud to recognize the couple’s tireless humanitarian work as they continue to advocate for equality and acceptance for all.”
Together, this power couple co-authored the New York Times bestselling children’s book, Shady Baby, which is based on their daughter Kaavia James. The couple has also co-founded Proudly, a sustainable baby care brand made specifically for babies and children of color, and so much more.
With the support of her various partnerships, Gabrielle has personally donated to the Van Ness Recovery House, Leap for Ladies, Out Nebraska, Deborah’s Place, Harvest House, and Baltimore Safe Haven. Dwyane co-founded Social Change Fund United with Chris Paul and Carmelo Anthony to invest in and support organizations focused on empowering communities of color and advocating for the human rights of all Black lives.
“Gabrielle Union-Wade and Dwyane Wade are exemplary in their purpose-driven leadership and use of their collective platforms for good,” said Scott Mills, President & CEO, BET. “This year’s recipients of the NAACP President’s Award are not just a timely signifier of the issues that matter most to the community; they are a testament to what is possible when one commits themselves to advancement in those areas. It is a great honor for BET to join the NAACP to amplify these issues and celebrate the leaders doing the work to drive change in our community.”
The President’s Award is presented in recognition of special achievement and distinguished public service, with previous recipients including Rihanna, LeBron James, Prince Harry & Meghan Markle, Muhammad Ali, Jesse Jackson, Colin Powell, Condoleezza Rice, Shawn “JAY-Z” Carter, Lauryn Hill and Soledad O’Brien, among others.
The 54th NAACP Image Awards will air live Saturday, February 25, 2023, at 8:00 PM ET on BET.