The 7th Annual Native Son Awards lit up The IAC Building on Wednesday night, honoring Black gay excellence with a dazzling celebration. This year’s honorees included trailblazers like Law Roach and Jeremy Pope, recognized for their groundbreaking contributions.
Founded in 2017 by journalist, FIT professor, and community leader Emil Wilbekin, the awards spotlight the achievements of Black gay and queer men who are not only challenging norms but actively reshaping them. Wilbekin highlighted the power of unity, saying, “We work hard and have dreams and aspirations. When we’re all together celebrating each other, we can be more powerful and create a legacy for the next generation.”
Don Lemon, a past recipient and longtime supporter, hosted the evening in style, donning a cream and white linen suit that echoed summer elegance. Wilbekin matched the vibe with a similarly sharp look.
Fashion Bomb Daily CEO Claire Sulmers brought vintage glamour in a strapless black sequin gown, complete with finger waves and smokey eyes. A proud LGBTQ+ ally, she voiced her support for Wilbekin and the Native Son mission.
The night was filled with standout fashion moments. LaQuan Smith, who presented an award to Law Roach, wore a chocolate draped top with black coated denim and maroon boots. Roach, known for styling icons like Zendaya and Celine Dion, turned heads in a white pinstripe suit jacket with a black floral pin.
Jeremy Pope, honored by Rashad Robinson, chose a sleek all-black look featuring a textured sleeveless top and wide-leg trousers. Lena Waithe made a bold statement in a nude double-breasted graphic suit, paired with a wifebeater, yellow durag, and pearl necklace.
The stylish crowd also included celebrity stylist Ty Hunter in a cropped blazer and wide-leg pants, accessorized with a metal emblem hat and studded necklaces, and supermodel Joan Smalls in a commanding black power suit.
The evening was a vibrant tribute to Black gay excellence, celebrating those who are shaping culture and community with authenticity, creativity, and pride.
