The star-studded black tie Multicultural Motion Picture Association's 16th Annual Diversity Awards - "Celebrating Diversity - American Spirit And Global Talent - Making Happen!" honoring artists for their exceptional achievements in film and television, was held on Sunday evening, November 23, 2008 in the Globe Theatre at Universal Studios Hollywood. Prior to the Awards Show, a Celebrity VIP Silent Auction and Reception was held. The event, which attracted 300 guests, raised thousands of dollars to benefit The Multicultural Motion Picture Association's (MMPA's) Educational and Development Scholarship Fund, which helps talented and dedicated students, and upcoming filmmakers, seeking entry into the film and television professions. Actress Ruby Dee received a standing ovation as she accepted the Lifetime Achievement Award, thanking the MMPA for honoring her by reciting a moving poem which was gifted to her by actress Bea Richards entitled, "My One Good Nerve."
Co-hosted by Lauren Sánchez, Fox 11/My 13 Television Anchor, and James R. Black, Actor, the 2008 Diversity Award recipients included: Nate Parker (Male Nova Award); Mallika Sherawat (Renaissance Artist Award); Ruby Dee (2008 Lifetime Achievement Award); Gina Prince-Bythewood (VisionaryAward); Diane English (Best Adapted Screenplay - The Women); A&E's The Cleaner (2008 Most Compelling Television Drama - Actors: Benjamin Bratt, Amy Price-Francis, Bookem Woodbine and Esteben Powell; Jonathan Prince, Executive Producer/Co-Creator/Showrunner; Robert Munic, Executive Producer/Co-Creator; Warren Boyd, Co-Executive Producer; Jay Silverman, Co-Executive Producer; Tana Jamieson, A&E Sr. Vice President of Drama); ESPN's Black Magic (2008 Best Documentary Feature - Non-Theatrical Release - Ilan Benhanan); Turner Broadcasting's Saving Grace (2008 Favorite Television Drama - Actors: Holly Hunter, Bailey Chase, Gregory Cruz, Kenny Johnson); and Bravo Network (2008 Diverse Programming Network - Flipping Out - Actors: Jeff Lewis, Jenni Pulos and Ryan Brown; Cori Abraham, Vice President, Development, Bravo; Jennifer Levy, Director of Development and Production; Ingrid Hadley, NBC Universal Cable TV Networks Distribution; Brenda Lowry, Director, Bravo Communications).
The 16th Annual Diversity Awards show was presented by Jarvee E. Hutcherson, Executive Producer of The 16th Annual Diversity Awards and National President of The Multicultural Motion Picture Association. Richard Balin served as Director; Brandon Balin served as Technical Director.
Jarvee E. Hutcherson stated: "We are very pleased to have honored a very select talented group of artists during our special 16th Anniversary for The Diversity Awards. Our organization believes each of our honorees have broadened the creative landscape in the film and television industry through their visionary work. We are recognizing the foundation laid by both artistic leaders and the emerging depth of dedicated young artists, behind and in front of the camera, who are bringing to this industry, a vision and talent indicative of only greater things to come in the future."
Entertainment was provided by Sink To See, Brenda Holloway and Brandi Maddox. Award Presenters included: Melissa Balin, Sufe Bradshaw, Sally Kirkland, Mother Love, Jenni Pulos, Stephanie Simbari and Keisha Thompson.
The sumptuous dinner menu, catered by Wolfgang Puck, included: Baby Mixed Greens with Tomatoes, Endive and House Vinaigrette; Roasted Stuffed Chicken with Spinach, Goat Cheese, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Roasted Garlic, Thyme Potato Puree & Sautéed Vegetables; Mango Upside Down Cake with Pineapple Sauce, Vanilla Ice Cream & Diversity Award Milk Chocolate Medallions; Assorted Rustic La Brea Breads; Coffee, Decaffeinated Coffee, Selection of Tazo Hot Teas and Forest Glen Wines.
The concept of the "Diversity Awards" was founded upon the ideal that a wide spectrum of talent and perspectives should be honored for the roles that they play in contributing to the diverse and thought-provoking stories that are being brought to the motion picture and television industry. As there are so many talented artists both behind and in front of the camera, the MMPA and its 1,600 members in the international entertainment community make a conscious effort to seek out and take special note of these individuals, and projects, which are capturing the public's imaginations. A dual purpose of the Awards Show is the ability to benefit the MMPA's Educational Scholarship Fund, providing financial assistance and technical support to young filmmakers bringing diverse stories to the screen.
