December 16, 2025 |Awards, Events, LCTV News, News, Non-profits

2026 Local Black Excellence Honorees Announced

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From the North Shore Juneteenth Association: The North Shore Juneteenth Association (NSJA) invites the public to attend the Local Black Excellence Ceremony, an evening dedicated to honoring and celebrating Black achievement, leadership, and cultural impact across Essex County.

As part of Black History Month, the Local Black Excellence Ceremony will recognize individuals whose contributions have made a lasting and positive impact in fields such as community service, education, arts and culture, business, civic leadership, and advocacy. Honorees represent the strength, diversity, and resilience of Black Americans and members of the African diaspora living and working in Essex County.

The evening will include remarks from community leaders, the formal recognition of honorees, and opportunities for community members to come together in celebration and reflection. The ceremony also continues NSJA’s tradition of “giving flowers” to local leaders while they can be honored and appreciated in real time.

“Local Black Excellence is about visibility, pride, and legacy. This ceremony allows us to uplift the positive stories and powerful contributions of Black Leaders while bringing our community together in a spirit of unity and celebration.”

Nicole McClain, Founder and President of the North Shore Juneteenth Association

Nominations open annually the first week of October. Residents of Essex County are encouraged to nominate members of their communities who fit the criteria.

2026 Local Black Excellence Honorees

About North Shore Juneteenth Association

The North Shore Juneteenth Association (NSJA) is dedicated to creating awareness about the Juneteenth holiday, educating the broader community about positive aspects of Black American culture and the African diaspora, and dismantling racism through inclusive events, education, and community-based programming.

For more information, visit nsjuneteenth.com