The 33rd annual NAACP Image Awards (By Patrice Sulton)

Los Angeles, California (Universal Ampitheater)

The 33rd annual NAACP Image Awards celebration of talent and achievement was nothing short of spectacular this year, as honorees not only proved themselves worthy of the recognition they received from their peers this evening, but also of the overall approval from each industry represented, their colleagues, and the community at large. Among those lauded at the ceremony (sponsored by Chrysler) were leaders of every aspect of American culture; from cinema and television to music, to literature, to community involvement and/or making an overall impact on our nation as a whole.
The one thing shared by this diverse group of winners, and nominees alike, was a legitimate effort to present positive images (hence the name) of people of color to an audience submerged in stereotypes and other preconceptions; misconceptions of what black entertainers and other persons of color in positions of power should and must always be. The night showcased the accomplishments of only a small percentage of deft individuals in attendance, including President's Award honoree, U.S. National Security Advisor Dr. Condoleeza Rice (whose Secret Service security measures delayed the commencement by 40 min.), Hall of Fame award winner, Little Richard, and Chairman's Award recipient Aaron McGruder (creator of the comic strip, "The Boondocks").

The night began with an incredible performance by recording artists Take 6, India Arie, Musiq, and Stevie Wonder himself. Surprisingly, the energy did not go unmatched for the remainder of the event, as host Chris Tucker, assisted by a slew of inspirational and talented presenters, carried the ceremony with the perfect balance of wit, charm, enlightenment, and professionalism. Another wonderful addition to the star-studded lineup was opera singer Denyce Graves whose flawless delivery of "The American Anthem" left the entire assembly in awe of a her mastery of an art form previously untapped by African-Americans. Overall, the entertainment side of this year's event was as heavily emphasized as the acknowledgment of political leaders for which it has become so well known was.

In addition to the imperative presence of NAACP Chief Executive Officer, Kweisi Mfume, and Chairman, Julian Bond, was Vice Chairman Roslyn Brock who also holds the title of the youngest and first female to hold her position as of this time last year and Rev. Jesse Jackson himself. This is certainly one of few venues that a select few like these would share a night of recognition and unity with their musical, theatrical, and entrepreneurial equivalents such as token hip hop star, lyricist and producer, Master P (accompanied by platinum-selling son, Lil' Romeo).

Clearly, the Awards served as more than merely a trophy competition. It was a showcase of the unity and gifts of those deserving persons, some of whom are otherwise often overlooked, unacknowledged, or misunderstood. Moreover, it acted as a forum for experts in every field to join together and produce one brilliant image of color for the world to share. The show will air this Friday, March 1, at 8:00p.m. ET/PT on FOX.

Dated: February 23, 2002