Sheryl Lee Ralph Celebrates 35 Years of DIVAS

The legendary Sheryl Lee Ralph recently brought together a constellation of stars for a truly special occasion: the 35th annual DIVAS Simply Singing Awards Gala. This star-studded event, held in Los Angeles, was not only a celebration of talent and glamour but also a significant fundraiser for a vital cause.

A Dreamgirls Reunion for a Cause

Adding to the evening’s magic, Ralph’s former ‘Dreamgirls’ costars, including Gina Taylor, Loretta Devine, and Jenifer Lewis, graced the red carpet, reuniting for the worthy cause. Even Jennifer Hudson, who won an Oscar for her portrayal of Effie White in the 2006 film adaptation, was part of the star power. The event, held at the Taglyan Complex, served as a crucial fundraiser for Ralph’s DIVA Foundation.

Founded by Ralph in 1990, the DIVA Foundation is dedicated to raising resources and awareness about HIV and AIDS, particularly within underserved communities. The foundation was established after Ralph tragically lost several friends to the disease, including Michael Bennett, the producer and director of the original Broadway production of ‘Dreamgirls’.

Honoring Advocacy and Philanthropy

The gala honored several individuals for their significant contributions. Rev. Debra Fraser-Howze received the DIVA Honors Inaugural Visionary Award for her tireless advocacy in HIV/AIDS awareness and health equity. The Legacy of Love Humanitarian Award was presented to the iconic singing duo Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis Jr. for their decades-long commitment to philanthropy.

Posthumous recognition was given to Jewel Thais-Williams, the founder of the historic Catch One nightclub, who received the Legend of Distinction Award for her work as a community activist and wellness pioneer. Dr. Maya Green, Chief Medical Officer of Onyx Medical Wellness, was honored with the Honors Wellness Warrior Award, and choreographer Lula Washington received the Artistic Activism Award for her use of the arts for social change.

A Night of Performances and Generosity

The evening was filled with inspiring performances. Laila Hathaway and Andra Day graced the stage, with Day performing her uplifting hit “Rise Up.” South Carolina native 803Fresh performed his summer anthem “Boots On The Ground.” Gina Taylor and her husband, James Pickens, delivered a touching duet of “It Takes Two” and generously donated $10,000 to the foundation to support a men’s health initiative focused on prostate health. Sheryl Lee Ralph herself also took to the stage to perform “I Dream a Dream.”

Jenifer Lewis, a longtime friend of Ralph’s, shared a humorous reflection on their decades-long friendship, joking, “Sheryl and I have known each other since we were 19 years old. That was back in the 1800s.” The event underscored the power of community and the arts in raising awareness and funds for critical health issues.