Denver Honors Arts and Culture Contributors at 2024 Mayor’s Awards Ceremony
Denver Mayor Mike Johnston celebrated the achievements of five remarkable individuals and organizations at the 2024 Mayor’s Awards for Excellence in Arts & Culture, continuing a cherished tradition established in 1986. The awards ceremony took place during a special luncheon where each honoree was presented with custom artwork by Chris Wilburn of Access Gallery, which focuses on empowering individuals with disabilities. Additionally, each recipient received a $2,500 stipend to bolster their contributions to Denver’s vibrant arts scene.
“Denver’s art scene is as vibrant and alive as the city itself,” Mayor Johnston stated. “The innovative, awe-inspiring work represented here honors our culture, challenges our perspectives, and reflects the range of creative brilliance in our city.”
This year’s honorees included:
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Impact Award: Colorado Dragon Boat Festival, recognized as the largest of its kind in the U.S., now attracts over 200,000 attendees and fosters a sense of community and cultural pride through its celebration of Asian heritage.
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Youth Award: In Lak’ech Denver Arts empowers local youth through free programming led by BIPOC artists, encouraging students to explore their heritage and showcase their creativity through various traditional art forms.
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Innovation Award: Museum for Black Girls, which cultivates a space for cultural reflection and dialogue by celebrating the achievements and experiences of Black girls.
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JEDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) Award: Courtney Ozaki, founder of the Japanese Arts Network, is recognized for her efforts to elevate Japanese culture and support artists while promoting community engagement.
- Global Award: Museo de las Americas, a vital space dedicated to preserving and showcasing Latin American and Indigenous cultures, noted for its innovative programs and exhibitions.
The awards ceremony reflects the collaborative efforts of the mayor’s office, Denver Arts & Venues, and the Denver Commission on Cultural Affairs. For further details on the honorees, visit Denver’s Arts and Venues website.
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Photo credit denvergazette.com