SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The California State Capitol became a powerful stage for recognition as lawmakers and community leaders gathered for the 2026 Unsung Hero Awards, held during a milestone year marking the 100th anniversary of Black History Month. On the Assembly floor, members of the Legislative Black Caucus stood in unity to pass a resolution formally recognizing the centennial of Black History Month, a moment led by Assemblyman Isaac Bryan and supported by colleagues across the chamber. The resolution honored both the historical significance of Black contributions to California and the ongoing work still being carried forward in communities today.
But beyond the legislative recognition, the heart of the day centered on the individuals being honored — those whose impact often unfolds outside of headlines but remains deeply embedded in the communities they serve. Among them, Bryan’s tribute to Los Angeles photographer Leroy “Photo” Ham Hamilton stood out as one of the most resonant moments of the ceremony.
Read More: https://voiceofblackla.com/brotherhood-crusade-community-garden-danny-bakewell/
Hamilton, widely regarded as a visual storyteller of Black Los Angeles, has spent years documenting the city’s culture, resilience and everyday beauty through his lens. His photography serves as both archive and affirmation — preserving stories that might otherwise go unseen while reframing how Black communities are represented.
His work captures everything from community gatherings and cultural milestones to the quiet, intimate moments that define Black life across generations. Bryan emphasized Hamilton’s role in documenting not just moments, but a movement — a living record of Black Los Angeles that reflects joy, struggle, creativity and legacy.
The Unsung Hero Awards, organized through the California Legislative Black Caucus, brought together honorees from across the state — each recognized by their respective legislators for a lifetime or body of work dedicated to service, advocacy and leadership. This year’s honorees included:
Marilyn Washington Harris was recognized for her work supporting families affected by violence, transforming personal loss into community advocacy. Vernell Brown was honored for longstanding service and commitment to uplifting others. Dr. Jawane Hilton, a pastor, educator and Carson councilmember, was recognized for his leadership at the intersection of faith and civic engagement.
Cleveland “CJ” Johnson was honored for his contributions to community work, while Robert Pullen-Miles, mayor of Lawndale, was honored for decades of public service and local leadership. Bernice King Tingle received recognition for her dedication to volunteerism and community building.
Rosie Lee Hooks a cultural leader tied to the Watts Towers Arts Center, was honored for preserving and advancing Black art and cultural spaces in Los Angeles. Dr. Suzanne Afflalo was recognized for her work in education and advocacy, while Lauren Brazile was honored for her commitment to uplifting communities across her district.
Captain Jason Stanley was recognized for his service and leadership.
Vincent Hayes a young volunteer firefighter, was honored for his bravery and life-saving actions — a reminder that heroism can emerge at any age.
Dr. Jawane Hilton Carson city councilmember, pastor and educator whose leadership bridges faith, education and public service. Known for his work in youth development and community empowerment, Hilton has dedicated his career to strengthening neighborhoods and expanding opportunity.
Cleveland “CJ” Johnson honored for his impactful community work and commitment to service. His contributions reflect a dedication to uplifting others and creating pathways for growth and opportunity within his community.
Robert Pullen-Miles serves as mayor of Lawndale and brings decades of public service experience to his role. His leadership has focused on community development, civic engagement and improving quality of life for residents across the city.
Bernice King Tingle is a respected community leader known for her dedication to volunteerism and service. Her work has supported local families and strengthened community bonds through consistent outreach and leadership.
Rosie Lee Hooks is a cultural leader and longtime director of the Watts Towers Arts Center in Los Angeles. She has played a key role in preserving one of the city’s most significant cultural landmarks while advancing arts education and community programming.
Dr. Suzanne Afflalo is an educator and advocate committed to advancing equity and opportunity through education. Her work focuses on empowering students and communities through leadership, mentorship and academic development.
Lauren Brazile is recognized for her dedication to community uplift and advocacy. Her work centers on supporting underserved populations and building stronger, more connected communities through service and leadership.
Captain Jason Stanley is honored for his leadership and service within the fire department and broader community. His work extends beyond emergency response, reflecting a commitment to public safety, mentorship and community care.
Vincent Hayes is a young volunteer firefighter recognized for his bravery and quick action in saving a life during a medical emergency. His courage and commitment to service highlight the impact of youth leadership in public safety.
Dr. Lashawn Sharp-Collins is an educator and leader dedicated to advancing equity in education. She is known for her work in academic leadership and for supporting initiatives that uplift students and communities.
Together, the honorees represented generations of leadership rooted in service rather than spotlight. Inside the Capitol — where policies are debated and histories are often written in legislation — the ceremony offered a different kind of record. One centered not on politics alone, but on people. As the formal ceremony concluded, attendees gathered for a reception that extended the celebration beyond the Assembly floor at Brasserie du Monde.
For many in attendance, the day served as both recognition and reminder — that the foundation of California’s communities is built by individuals whose names may not always make headlines, but whose work leaves lasting impact. In honoring Hamilton and the broader 2026 Unsung Heroes, the Legislative Black Caucus did more than celebrate achievement. It affirmed that Black history is not only something to remember — it is something actively being created, documented and lived in real time.
Read More: https://blackcaucus.legislature.ca.gov/events/2025-clbc-unsung-heroes
