California Legislative Black Caucus Honors Community Leaders at 2026 Unsung Hero Awards

PublishedMarch 5, 2026

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The California State Capitol became a powerful stage for recognition as lawmakers and community leaders, including the California Legislative Black Caucus, 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 California 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, showcasing the vital work supported by the California Legislative Black Caucus.

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 by Assemblymember Mia Bonita for her work supporting families affected by violence, transforming personal loss into community advocacy through the Khadafy Washington Foundation.

Vernell Brown was honored by Assembymember Sade Elhawary for longstanding service and commitment to uplifting others.

Dr. Jawane Hilton, a pastor, educator and Carson councilmember, was recognized by Assemblymember Mike A. Gipson for his leadership at the intersection of faith and civic engagement.

Cleveland “CJ” Johnson was honored by Assemblymember Corey A. Jackson for his contributions to community work.

Robert Pullen-Miles serves as mayor of Lawndale and was honored by Assemblymember Tina S. McKinnon. His leadership has focused on community development, civic engagement and improving quality of life for residents across the city.

Bernice King Tingle received recognition from Senator Laura Richardson for her dedication to volunteering and community building. She promotes financial literacy through the Young Women’s Empowerment Project and has led the Mountain House Action Committee for over 15 years.

Rosie Lee Hooks a cultural leader and Director of the Rosie Lee Hooks Watts Towers Arts Center, was honored by Senator Laura Richardson for preserving and advancing Black art and cultural spaces in Los Angeles.

Dr. Suzanne Afflalo was recognized by Assemblymember Lashae Sharp-Collins for her work in education and advocacy,

Captain Jason Stanley was recognized for his service and leadership by Senator Akilah Weber Pierson.

Lauren Brazile was honored for her commitment to uplifting communities as the Founder of We Grow LA, a non-profit advancing food access, sustainability and community wellness.

Vincent Hayes a young volunteer firefighter, was honored for his bravery and life-saving actions by Assemblymember Lori D. Wilson.

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.

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.