Whoopi Goldberg will receive one of the highest honors from the New York Urban League during its 60th Annual Frederick Douglass Awards Dinner on June 4.
The award-winning entertainer, humanitarian, and advocate will be presented with the 2026 Frederick Douglass Medallion. The recognition celebrates her decades of achievements in entertainment and her commitment to advancing social justice and equality.
The event will take place at the historic Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York City. It marks the New York Urban League’s 60th anniversary and will honor leaders who have helped create opportunities and improve lives in underserved communities.
Whoopi Goldberg Honored for Lasting Impact in Entertainment and Advocacy
Goldberg’s influence reaches far beyond Hollywood. Over the years, she has built a career that has broken barriers and inspired generations.
In 2002, she became the first Black woman and only the tenth person to achieve EGOT status. The achievement means she won an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award.
However, her impact extends well beyond the entertainment industry. Goldberg has spent decades using her platform to support humanitarian causes and advocate for social change.
Her work has focused on issues including HIV/AIDS awareness, substance abuse prevention, early childhood education, and LGBTQ+ equality. These efforts have made her one of the most recognizable voices for justice and inclusion.
Humanitarian Work Strengthens Whoopi Goldberg’s Legacy
Goldberg’s commitment to public service has earned praise worldwide. In 2003, she was appointed a Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF.
Since then, she has supported global health campaigns and fundraising efforts. Her work has helped raise awareness about pneumonia and COVID-19 relief initiatives.
More recently, Goldberg expanded her international advocacy efforts. In 2025, she was named Global Patron of the United Nations Women’s Peace and Humanitarian Fund.
In that role, she has helped bring attention to women-led peacebuilding projects in conflict-affected regions. Her efforts continue to support women working to create safer and stronger communities worldwide.
New York Urban League Celebrates Leaders Driving Change
Goldberg will not be the only honoree recognized during the ceremony. The New York Urban League will also present Frederick Douglass Medallions to Priscilla Sims Brown and Chip Wade.
Brown serves as President and CEO of Amalgamated Bank. Under her leadership, the bank has invested heavily in affordable housing, nonprofit organizations, environmental sustainability, and social justice initiatives.
Meanwhile, Wade, CEO of Union Square Hospitality Group, is being recognized for his leadership and contributions to the hospitality industry. His career has focused on operational excellence and people-centered management.
Anne Williams-Isom to Receive Special Recognition
The evening will also honor Anne Williams-Isom with the 2026 Ann S. Kheel Award.
The award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a strong commitment to equal opportunity in health care, education, housing, and employment. Williams-Isom has spent decades serving communities throughout New York City.
Her career in public service has focused on improving the lives of vulnerable populations. Organizers said her work reflects the mission and values of the New York Urban League.
New York Urban League Marks 60 Years of Service and Empowerment
This year’s Frederick Douglass Awards Dinner represents more than an awards ceremony. It also marks six decades of advocacy, economic empowerment, and community leadership by the New York Urban League.
The evening will begin with a reception before moving into the awards program. Opening remarks will be delivered by New York City Comptroller Mark Levine, Board Chairman Malcolm Ellis, and New York Urban League President and CEO Arva Rice.
Hosted by Errol Louis, the event will celebrate individuals whose work has expanded opportunity and strengthened communities. As the organization enters its next chapter, the celebration will also reaffirm its commitment to advancing economic mobility, educational access, and social justice for future generations.
