L to R: 2011 McDonald’s 365Black Awards Honorees; civil rights “Freedom Rider” and McDonald’s owner/operator Henry “Hank” Thomas, Radio One network founder Cathy Hughes, multi-platinum recording artist Mary J. Blige, legendary Broadway actress Ruby Dee and NAACP's president & CEO Benjamin Jealous

McDonald’s 365Black Awards recognizes African-American legends whose committment to the community is seen through their lives and life-works.  This years reception took place during the Essence Music Festival weekend in New Orleans. The honorees included Mary J. Blige, Ruby Dee, Cathy Hughes, Benjamin Jealous, and Henry “Hank” Thomas.

“Our 365Black Awards honorees define true leadership in our community, from Ruby Dee’s trail blazing career as an actress to the civil rights crusades led by Hank Thomas; from the media empire created by Cathy Hughes to the leadership that Benjamin Jealous brings to the NAACP, our honorees inspire all Americans to give back in some unique way,” said Neil Golden, chief marketing officer, McDonald’s USA.

As an honoree, Mary J. Blige’s FFAWN Foundation received a $40,000 check for her organization’s committment and investment into the lives of young women.

L to R: McDonald’s USA’s Robert Jackson (2nd right) presents check for $40,000 to Mary J. Blige and Steve Stoute for FFAWN with National Black McDonald’s Operators Association (NBMOA) Chair and CEO Roland Parrish and McDonald’s owner/operator Mary Gillis.

For more information on the McDonald’s 365Black program and its past awardees, please visit www.mcdonalds.com/365black.

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