Don Lemon, Durand Bernarr, Carlos King & Jennifer Lewis to Be Honored at 12th Annual Truth Awards

Better Brothers Los Angeles and The DIVA Foundation announce honorees for the 12th Annual Truth Awards ceremony in Beverly Hills.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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Better Brothers Los Angeles (BBLA), in partnership with Emmy Award–winning actress and activist Sheryl Lee Ralph and The DIVA Foundation, has announced the honorees for the 12th Annual Truth Awards, which will take place on March 21, 2026 at the Beverly Hills Hotel. Former CNN anchor Don Lemon will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award, while new Grammy winner Durand Bernarr, reality TV producer Carlos King, and actress and activist Jennifer Lewis will also be honored.

Why it matters

The Truth Awards celebrate Black LGBTQ+ trailblazers and allies whose impact spans popular culture, media, politics, and the arts. This year's theme of "Saving Ourselves. Together We Rise" underscores a powerful message of unity, resilience, and collective responsibility.

The details

Don Lemon will be honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his unwavering dedication to journalism that informs, challenges, and inspires change. Durand Bernarr will receive the Music & Arts Award for redefining musical expression through bold creativity and vocal excellence. Carlos King, known as the 'King of Reality TV,' will be recognized with the Media & Arts Award for his groundbreaking contributions to storytelling and representation. Jennifer Lewis will be honored with the Ally Award for her outspoken advocacy, commitment to inclusivity, and fearless pursuit of equity and acceptance.

  • The 12th Annual Truth Awards and Scholarship Ceremony will take place on Saturday, March 21, 2026.

The players

Don Lemon

Former CNN anchor who will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award.

Durand Bernarr

Grammy-winning artist who will be honored with the Music & Arts Award.

Carlos King

Widely known as the 'King of Reality TV,' he will receive the Media & Arts Award.

Jennifer Lewis

Multi-award-winning actress and activist who will be honored with the Ally Award.

Sheryl Lee Ralph

Emmy Award–winning actress and activist, founder of The DIVA Foundation.

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What they’re saying

“This occasion is more than recognition; it's a powerful testament to resilience. Honoring those who have shaped our world through their truth emphasizes a compelling narrative for future generations.”

— Scott Hamilton, Co-founder of Better Brothers Los Angeles (thisisrnb.com)

“Celebrating these pioneers is not just an acknowledgment; it's a call to action. Their stories energize us to break through complacency, demonstrating that true change demands fearless vision and unwavering dedication.”

— Sheryl Lee Ralph, Founder of The DIVA Foundation (thisisrnb.com)

What’s next

Additional honorees, performers, presenters, and the evening's host will be announced in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

The Truth Awards celebrate the resilience, impact, and transformative leadership of Black LGBTQ+ trailblazers and allies, underscoring the power of unity and collective responsibility in driving meaningful change.