El Paso will mark a significant historical moment on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at 5 PM, when the Starlight Event Center (6650 Continental Dr.) hosts the inaugural Black Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. This significant event, created by Monica Tucker, honors El Pasoans who have made exceptional contributions to the community. The goal is to establish the recognition as an annual meaningful tradition based on unity and inspiration. Tucker carefully chose the inaugural class of honorees to exemplify a strong standard of excellence and lasting impact.
Beginning in 2026, nominations will open in September of each year, with eight individuals and one organization embodying diversity and collaboration being chosen annually. The committee overseeing the selection process consists of active and retired service members, community leaders, and business professionals who bring a wealth of experience, perspective, and dedication to ensuring the honorees truly represent the best of El Paso’s Black community.
Honoring the Trailblazers
The first group of inductees includes distinguished leaders who have shaped El Paso’s cultural, civic, and professional landscape.
Inaugural Class Inductees
- Juan O. Lawson, Ph.D, Prof. Emeritus (UTEP)
- LTC (Ret) Cephus “Dusty” Rhodes
- Maj. Gen. (Ret) Dana J.H. Pittard
- Maj. Gen. (Ret) Edward W. Greer
- Johnnie M. Washington
- Cynthia D. Horton
- Lillian W. Crouch
- Cheree Coleman
- Renard Johnson
- Marian Bennett
- Chief Zina Silva
- Ouisa D. Davis
- Dionne Mack
- Frances Hills
- Billy Townes
- Aaron Jones
- Alvin Jones
The ceremony will also include a heartfelt tribute to individuals who are no longer with us but whose legacies continue to inspire and resonate within the El Paso community.
A Musical Highlight
The AJM Collective, a dynamic group founded by Abeni Janae, a current UTEP Music graduate student, will provide the music for the evening. The ensemble is composed primarily of UTEP students and professional community musicians and singers. Their performance will add a vibrant and soulful atmosphere to this historic celebration.
Supporting a Vision: Project 2030
Proceeds will benefit The Black Roundtable (TBR), a nonprofit organization committed to serving as a cultural hub for the Black community in El Paso to include the quarterly roundtable discussions on various topics, and meetings with entities like FBI El Paso. Central to their mission is Project 2030, an initiative to create a comprehensive community center that will feature:
• A cultural arts, events, and study center
• Entrepreneurial incubator
• Educational programs offering classes on entrepreneurship, history, arts, financial wellness, and essential life skills for youth and adults
The Black Roundtable also seeks to foster cultural collaboration through programs like the upcoming Respect My Culture event, highlighting Afro-Latinx heritage and other diverse traditions later this year.
The new format for discussions was inspired by mentors of TBR who are no longer with us: Professor Dr. Maceo Dailey and Activist Twymeni Purchase. Both played pivotal roles in the relaunch of TBR and its pending expansion to a physical location, with many planned activities reflecting their invaluable input. Their contributions will be remembered and honored during the event.
Celebrate and Support
The community is invited to support this premier event honoring the achievements and legacies of El Paso’s Black community while supporting a vision for progress and unity. The Black Roundtable committee comprises active and retired service members, community leaders, and business professionals who work tirelessly to uphold the integrity and mission of the organization and its events and activities.
For more information or to purchase ads, sponsorships, or tickets, please contact Monica Tucker at monica@blackelpasovoice.com or 915.345.1661. You may also visit TheBlackRoundtable.com.
TICKETS Pre-Sale through January 31st
- INDIVIDUAL: $100 per person After January 31st – $125 (General Seating)
- TABLE FOR 10: $1000 After January 31st – $1250 (Reserved Seating)
- INAUGURAL SPONSORS: $3500 (Reserved Table Seating for 10) (Three (3) Available)
Click here for more Information, tickets, sponsorships, advertising: monica@blackelpasovoice.com | 915.209.1850 Deadline: Noon | February 14, 2025
This historic evening promises to be an unforgettable celebration of legacy, diversity, and forward movement. It is a milestone for El Paso that will serve as a pathway for youth and young adults as El Paso progresses.
C’ri is a passionate writer with an insatiable appetite for storytelling in all its forms. You’ll likely find her curled up with a good book or immersed in the latest blockbuster at her local cinema when she’s not crafting articles. Jane’s knack for staying on top of current events adds depth to her writing, while her laid-back personality brings a refreshing perspective to even the most complex topics. With a cup of tea and her finger on the pulse of pop culture, C’ri transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary one word at a time.
