WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) today announced the 2026 Phoenix Awards honorees, bringing together four of the nation’s most consequential leaders in arts and culture, civil rights and public service.
This year’s Phoenix Awards carry particular significance as the 50th presentation of the awards – marking five decades of honoring leaders whose courage, service, and achievement have advanced Black communities and shaped the nation.
As CBCF commemorates its 50th anniversary, the Phoenix Awards Dinner will celebrate five decades of impact and state its purpose for the work ahead. The black-tie event, renowned as the culminating program of the 55th Annual Legislative Conference (ALC), will be hosted by Actress La La Anthony and Actor Amin Joseph. The evening will recognize EGOT winner Viola Davis, civil rights icon Ambassador Andrew Young, former Congressional Black Caucus Chair Representative Joyce Beatty, and former Virginia Governor L. Douglas Wilder. The dinner begins at 6 p.m. on September 18 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C.
“In this anniversary year, the Phoenix Awards carry special meaning,” said Nicole Austin-Hillery, President and CEO of CBCF. “For 50 years, CBCF has invested in leaders, informed policy and expanded opportunity for Black communities. This year’s honorees reflect the courage, excellence and sustained public service that have defined that legacy – and the leadership our nation will continue to need in the decades ahead.”
The Phoenix Awards Dinner is CBCF’s premier recognition and fundraising event. It convenes leaders across government, business, philanthropy, advocacy and culture while generating critical support for the Foundation’s nonpartisan research, education, leadership development, fellowship and scholarship programs. In its 50th anniversary year, the dinner underscores the enduring power of leadership rooted in service – and CBCF’s commitment to preparing the next generation to meet the country’s most consequential challenges.
2026 Phoenix Awards Honorees
Viola Davis will receive the CBC Chair’s Award. One of the few artists to achieve EGOT status, Davis has shaped the cultural landscape through performances marked by emotional truth, dignity, and depth. Her memoir, Finding Me, offered an intimate account of triumph over circumstance and imposed labels, while her advocacy and community partnerships have advanced systemic change and elevated voices too often overlooked.
Joyce Beatty will receive the CBC Body Award. A longtime public servant and former Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, Beatty has championed policies that expand opportunity, strengthen communities, and advance prosperity for historically underserved Americans. Her record of legislative leadership and investment in the next generation reflects a career defined by advocacy, coalition-building and measurable public impact.
Ambassador Andrew Young will receive the CBCF Board Chair Award. A central figure in the American civil rights movement, Young helped shape its strategy and vision before continuing his service as a U.S. Congressman, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations and Mayor of Atlanta. Across more than six decades, he has demonstrated how principled leadership and diplomacy can advance peace, justice, human dignity and opportunity across generations.
L. Douglas Wilder will receive the ALC Honorary Co-Chairs Award. As the first African American elected governor of a U.S. state, Wilder broke a historic barrier and widened the path for generations of Black leaders in public life. His service in the Virginia Senate, Governor’s Mansion, and Richmond Mayor’s Office reflects a sustained commitment to civil rights, economic opportunity, and representative government.
About the Annual Legislative Conference
The Annual Legislative Conference is the leading policy conference focused on issues affecting African Americans and the global Black community. ALC features more than 70 public policy forums addressing health, education, economic empowerment, the environment and civic engagement, along with an Exhibit Showcase. Signature programs include the National Town Hall, Celebration of Leadership in Fine Arts, Gospel Extravaganza, Black Party, Prayer Breakfast, and the culminating Phoenix Awards Dinner.
For conference updates, visit cbcfinc.org/alc and follow CBCF on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X.
About the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation
The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the global Black community by developing leaders, informing policy and educating the public. Established in 1976, CBCF is committed to creating and maintaining an equitable society for all. To learn more, visit cbcfinc.org.