CNN anchor and chief legal analyst Laura Coates will soon stand in the spotlight for a powerful reason. On June 4, she’ll be honored with the prestigious Bill Ayres Social Justice Award at WhyHunger’s 50th Anniversary Chapin Awards Gala. The event will take place at Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York City.
This special award celebrates Coates for her fearless storytelling, tireless commitment to justice, and the way she uses her platform to uplift others. It’s a well-earned recognition for a woman who’s made it her mission to give a voice to the unheard.
Honoring a Voice for Justice and Community Empowerment
WhyHunger’s Bill Ayres Social Justice Award isn’t just any trophy — it’s a symbol of legacy and courage. Named after the organization’s co-founder, it recognizes people who fight for fairness and stand up for communities in need.
Coates is known for doing exactly that. Through her work on CNN and in courtrooms before that, she has consistently championed the rights of the vulnerable. CNN Senior National Correspondent Sara Sidner will present her with the honor during the evening’s celebration.
In a recent statement, Coates expressed her gratitude. “I am so humbled to be able to use my platform to democratize information and empower anyone and everyone to speak their own truth to power and uplift the most vulnerable among us!” she shared.
A Career Built on Truth, Justice, and Service
Before captivating TV audiences, Coates built a career rooted in justice. She served as a trial attorney in the U.S. Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division, focusing on voting rights enforcement. Later, she became an Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia, handling serious felony cases like domestic violence, drug trafficking, and sexual assault.
In 2016, Coates added author to her resume with You Have the Right: A Constitutional Guide to Policing the Police. The bestselling book breaks down citizens’ Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth Amendment rights in simple language while advocating for greater police accountability.
Now hosting Laura Coates Live on CNN, she’s a trusted voice on complex legal and political matters. Coates made headlines with her on-the-ground coverage of the presidential race and her in-depth reporting on the sex trafficking trial involving Sean “Diddy” Combs.
A Night of Music, Activism, and Recognition
The 50th Anniversary Chapin Awards Gala will be more than just a ceremony. It’s a gathering of activists, artists, and change-makers dedicated to fighting hunger and promoting human rights. Alongside Coates, Grammy-winning musicians Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo will also be honored. They’ll receive the ASCAP Harry Chapin Humanitarian Award for using their music and platforms to spark social change.
The evening promises live performances by Benatar and Giraldo, plus a special tribute from members of The Fab Faux led by Music Director Will Lee. It’s a celebration of activism, art, and community all wrapped in one night.
Why This Honor Matters Right Now
WhyHunger’s mission goes beyond charity. The organization works to end hunger by addressing the root causes of poverty and injustice. This award to Coates isn’t just about what she’s done — it’s about what she represents: bold leadership, fearless advocacy, and an unwavering commitment to community upliftment.
As our world faces growing social, legal, and humanitarian challenges, leaders like Laura Coates remind us how essential it is to speak up, educate others, and create space for every voice to be heard.
