“I hope all of us who work in this industry feel strong and inspired and not discouraged, especially because this is a very difficult time right now,” Chappelle said. “And (the NAACP) is, sadly, more relevant than it’s been in a long time. We got a lot of work to do. But it feels good to know that we’re not in it alone, that we got each other. And remember, community is everything.”
Previous recipients of the President’s Award, which is presented “in recognition of special achievement and distinguished public service,” include Usher, Rihanna, LeBron James, Kerry Washington, Spike Lee, Muhammad Ali, Jesse Jackson, Colin Powell, Shawn “JAY-Z” Carter and Lauryn Hill.
“The President’s Award honors an unwavering dedication to community, and throughout his distinguished career, Dave Chappelle has consistently been recognized as a powerful voice of social consciousness,” said NAACP president and CEO Derrick Johnson in a press statement. “Through his unique ability to transform complex political issues into thought-provoking humor, Dave has solidified his place as one of the most impactful voices of our time. His work sparks conversations that compel people to examine their own beliefs, proving that in an age where open dialogue is increasingly rare, comedy can be both a powerful truth-teller and a driver of progress.”
The Washington, D.C. native began his comedy career at age 14. The groundbreaking success of “Chappelle’s Show” (2003-2006) elevated his artistry to the masses. He notably walked away from a $50 million deal at the height of the show’s success.
He has also delivered six Netflix specials which have received acclaim but his jokes in particular about the transgender community in “The Closer” and “The Dreamer” sparked controversy.
Chappelle is the recipient of five Primetime Emmy Awards and six Grammy Awards. He also received the Kennedy Center’s Mark Twain Prize for American Humor.
“Through it all, Chappelle has maintained his distinctive voice and unflinching approach to comedy, proving that success can come without compromise,” the NAACP noted. “His continued residence in Yellow Springs, Ohio, far from the entertainment industry’s centers of power, reflects the independence that has defined his career.”
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