Truth, Love, and Empathy: Inside the 12th Annual Better Brothers LA Truth Awards

The 12th Annual Better Brothers Los Angeles Truth Awards was more than a celebration; it was a powerful reminder of what it looks like when truth, community and culture take center stage. Women for the Culture had the honor of being front and center as red carpet guests for the spectacular evening.

Held at the Beverly Hilton, the night brought together some of the most impactful voices across entertainment, media and advocacy, all under this year's guiding theme: "Saving Ourselves. Together We Rise." Produced in partnership with Emmy Award-winning actress Sheryl Lee Ralph’s The DIVA Foundation and powered by ViiV Healthcare, the event specifically honors remarkable individuals who have made significant contributions to the LGBTQ+ community.

​While on the carpet, I asked one simple question to everyone I spoke with: What does the world need more of right now?

​Without hesitation, the answer echoed again and again: love and empathy. Not just as abstract words, but as a literal call to action. In a time where everything can feel so deeply divided, that level of alignment among the attendees felt intentional, refreshing and necessary. One of my absolute favorite moments of the night came during a conversation with singer-songwriter and performance artist Durand Bernarr, who was honored with the Music & Arts Award. When asked what the world needs more of, he smiled and gave a classic, unfiltered answer: The world needs "more of him."

​And honestly? He might not be wrong. His presence alone carries a level of joy, authenticity and freedom that the world could absolutely use a double dose of right now.

​This year’s honorees reflected the immense depth and range of Black excellence across industries. Award-winning journalist Don Lemon received the Lifetime Achievement Award for his groundbreaking career and global impact (and yes, he is officially our media bestie). The legendary Jenifer Lewis was honored with the Ally Award for her unwavering advocacy and decades of cultural influence.​ Television producer and media entrepreneur Carlos King was recognized for his contributions to media and storytelling, while comedian Flame Monroe brought well-deserved recognition to comedy as the recipient of the Entertainer Award. Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Nneka Onuorah was celebrated as the night's Breakout Star, and Dr. Keith Green was presented with the Bayard Rustin Advocacy Award for his vital work in public health and community impact.

​The star-studded evening was hosted by actress and producer Vivica A. Fox, featuring a standout performance by five-time Grammy Award-winning vocalist Lalah Hathaway that added soul and depth to an already meaningful night. The room was packed with cultural icons and presenters, including Ralph, former White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, Cynthia Bailey and Claudia Jordan.

What makes the Truth Awards so special is not just who is holding the trophies, but what the room itself represents. It is a space where people are seen fully, celebrated openly and reminded that their truth has undeniable power. It serves as a necessary reminder that visibility, representation and community support are never optional... they are mandatory.

​Nights like this stay with you. Not just because of the immense talent in the room, but because of the conversations, the radical honesty and the shared understanding that we all have a role to play in shaping something better.

​If there is one thing to take away from this year’s Truth Awards, it is this: The world is asking for more love, more empathy and just a little more courage to show up fully as ourselves.

​The 12th Annual Truth Awards will debut on KTLA+ on Saturday, June 6, at 8 p.m. PT.