WS Chronicle

The concept Black Girl Magic was born as a way to celebrate the beauty, power and resilience of black women and to spotlight their many accomplishments and contributions to society.

On Saturday, Oct. 27, that magic was on full display inside the Embassy Suites as the Legacy Foundation for Women hosted the first Legacy Awards.

The brainchild of Alicia M. Bailey, the goal of the Legacy Foundation for Women is to pay it forward, invest in and recognize women and girls of color through philanthropy, humanitarian efforts, scholarships, award recognitions, conference events, and mentoring programs. When discussing the Foundation, Bailey said, “It’s a blueprint, a movement that pays it forward and leaves a legacy for the next generation.”

Bailey, who is also the founder of Alicia Bailey Ministries Inc., a local Christian ministry, said she didn’t grow up in the best neighborhood, but because of a dedicated family, good friends, and outstanding community leaders, she was awarded amazing opportunities that led her to where she is today. 

“For decades and ages, women of color have been breaking barriers and making a mark in our cities and in our communities, locally and nationally, and tonight we celebrate seven women who are blazing the trail,” said Bailey. “Not only are we celebrating these women here tonight, but we celebrate all women of color by giving back to the community and to the next generation and that’s something all of us can do. It’s our responsibility and our duty because if we don’t do it, who will?”

Women honored during the awards ceremony were: Dr. Pamela Oliver, Dana Suggs, Rep. Evelyn Terry, Sarah Alston, Margaret Johnson, Chief Catrina Thompson, and Apostle Gloria Samuels.

According to Bailey, all of the funds and donations from the Legacy Awards will go toward a scholarship fund for local high school students.

For more information on the Legacy Foundation for Women or the Legacy Awards, visit www.legacyfoundationforwomen.com.