Urban League invites ongoing individual support as fundraising
continues after the gala
The Chicago Urban League’s 64th Annual Golden Fellowship Dinner delivered one of its most memorable evenings yet on Saturday, November 8, drawing more than 2,400 supporters to the Skyline Ballroom at McCormick Place. The annual gala blended elegance with cultural immersion as guests moved through a series of museum-like installations that highlighted the rich history, artistry, and everyday life of Black Chicago.
The installations included a full-sized vintage newsstand reminiscent of those once found on street corners, complete with publications that shaped Black political thought and civic awareness. Another exhibit honored the Black Church, featuring wooden pews and live choir performers who brought the sacred space to life. A third installation recreated the vibe of a contemporary Black club with live musicians, evoking the creativity and expression that define Chicago’s entertainment legacy. Additional displays showcased artwork, archival images, and products historically used and cherished within Black communities.
Inside the ballroom, guests were treated to a program that celebrated the League’s mission while honoring individuals whose work reflects the organization’s values. Ledisi, the Grammy Award–winning singer-songwriter, delivered a standout musical performance that brought the audience to its feet.
This year’s honorees included Toi Salter, President of Salter Financial Management, who received the Lester H. McKeever Jr. Individual Service Award for her leadership and commitment to community; George E. Johnson Sr., entrepreneur and philanthropist, who received the Edwin C. “Bill” Berry Civil Rights Award; and Julieanna Richardson, founder of The HistoryMakers, who was honored with the Humanitarian Award. The portraits of the honorees were created by three Chicago-based artists—Kudzai Mutasa, Raven Smith, and Raymond Thomas—whose work added a dynamic visual dimension to the evening.
Chicago Urban League President and CEO Karen Freeman-Wilson reflected on the importance of the event and the organization’s ongoing work. She also shared a post-event message acknowledging that some guests encountered challenges while attempting to donate during the live paddle raise or through digital platforms.
“We came quite close to our $3 million fundraising goal,” Freeman-Wilson said, “but we recognize that some attendees experienced difficulties accessing donation options. There is still time to donate, and we appreciate the generosity that helps sustain our programs and advocacy for Black Chicagoans.”
Event producer Merry Green, founder and executive producer of MGPG Events, described the evening as a “Rooftop Moment”—a time to pause and acknowledge the successful execution of a massive project. She praised her team and the League for producing an unforgettable experience and noted that the installations and performances were designed to honor both the organization’s history and the cultural legacy of Black Chicago.
The program book highlighted several achievements from fiscal year 2025, including serving more than 2,200 job seekers, engaging 3,700 youth through college and career readiness programs, connecting over 16,000 residents to financial resources, supporting nearly 1,500 entrepreneurs, and providing leadership development to more than 500 Black professionals. The League also released two major research reports and engaged more than 27,000 people through its health equity programming.
Readers who wish to support the Chicago Urban League’s year-end fundraising may donate online by selecting the “Donate Now” button at www.chiul.org, or by mailing a check to: Chicago Urban League, Attn: Development Department, 4510 S. Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60653. All contributions help sustain the League’s programs that advance equity, opportunity, and prosperity for Black families and communities across Chicago.
