Black Achievement Washington To Host Inaugural Gala to Celebrate State-Wide Excellence
From left to right, Kayla Hoy, Christina Abby, Patrick Hughes, Jonathan Johnson, Annette Washington, and Margret Gilbert of BAWA pose together. (Photo courtesy of BAWA)
Black Achievement Washington (BAWA) has announced the organization’s first-ever state-wide Black Achievement Washington Gala, a black-tie event scheduled for June 27, 2026 at the Emerald Queen Casino in Fife, Washington. The inaugural event is set to honor Black leaders, trailblazers, and changemakers whose influence has shaped Washington State’s history, culture, and ongoing progress.
Founded on the principle that Black achievement requires intentional recognition and preservation, BAWA aims to educate, uplift, and empower the Black community while documenting these legacies for future generations.
Patrick L. Hughes Sr., Founder and Executive Director of Black Achievement Washington, emphasized the mission of the event. Hughes noted that BAWA was created to provide the community with the recognition it has long deserved.
“This Gala is about honoring our past, celebrating the leaders among us today, and inspiring our youth to see what is possible when excellence is acknowledged and uplifted,” Hughes said in a recent press release.
Honorees for the Gala have been selected through a community-driven nomination process in the categories of youth empowerment and mentorship, education excellence, arts and culture, business achievement, civic leadership, faith leadership, first responders, sports and athletic achievement, and community impact.
Beyond a night of celebration, the event is designed to serve as a platform for education, collaboration, and long-term investment in Black youth. BAWA’s long-term vision includes expanding educational support, scholarships, internships, and statewide programming rooted in historical awareness and community empowerment.
To learn more about the upcoming gala, visit BAWA’s website here.
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