Colin Kaepernick named Muhammad Ali Humanitarian of the Year

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By Sherlene Shanklin

The Muhammad Ali Center announces that former NFL quarterback, civil rights activist and entrepreneur Colin Kaepernick is this year’s recipient of ‘Humanitarian of the Year’ award. Kaepernick will receive the honor at the 13th annual Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Awards, the Center’s largest annual fundraiser to support the Center’s mission-based programs and events. It will take place on November 7 in Louisville, KY.

Kaepernick joins an esteemed class of ‘Humanitarian of the Year’ recipients since the launch of the Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Awards in 2013, including Shaquille O’Neal, Christina Aguilera, Michael J. Fox, Common, Patricia Arquette, Geena Davis, and more.

Like Muhammad, Colin has used his platform to advocate for equality, human dignity, and social change, even when doing so came at significant personal and professional cost.” said Lonnie Ali, Co-Founder and President & CEO of the Muhammad Ali Center. “Through Know Your Rights Camp and his broader philanthropic efforts, Colin has turned his convictions into meaningful action by educating,empowering, and supporting young people and communities. His courage, sacrifice, and sustained dedication to service embody the humanitarian spirit and enduring legacy of Muhammad Ali.”

“Receiving the Muhammad Ali Center’s Humanitarian of the Year Award is an incredible honor,” said Colin Kaepernick. “Muhammad Ali lived with an uncommon courage to stand firmly in his convictions, even when doing so came at a great personal cost. He understood that our platforms are not simply ours to benefit from, but ours to use in service of others. To be recognized in his name is simultaneously humbling and a responsibility. I remain committed to bring about justice, uplift our communities, and develop a world where all people can live with freedom, dignity, and self-determination.”

The Muhammad Ali Center is a 501(c)(3) that prides itself on being much more than a museum.As an athlete, a humanitarian, a global voice and man guided by faith, Muhammad Ali embodied a pursuit and belief in the greatness found in all people. Founded in 2005 by Lonnie and Muhammad Ali in his hometown of Louisville, the Center is dedicated to honoring Ali and continuing work based on his core principles.

Roots & Reins: The Forgotten Cowboys Benefit Dinner

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Louisville, KY (August 25, 2026) Prestigious Entertainment Group, in partnership with Roots 101 African American Museum, proudly announces Roots & Reins: The Forgotten Cowboys Benefit Dinner, a powerful cultural event honoring the untold legacy of Black cowboys and cowgirls whose skill, courage, and contributions helped build and shape the American West.

Guided by the theme “One Journey. One Table. Centuries of History.,” this benefit dinner brings guests together for an evening of heritage, storytelling, and celebration. The event uplifts the often‑overlooked pioneers whose labor and leadership defined ranching, rodeo culture, and the evolution of American identity. Attire for the event is rodeo elevated and/or western chic.

Entertainment for the evening features Hannah Drake, The Sankofa Players and other special guests will perform.

Held at Roots 101 African American Museum, the evening will support educational programming and preservation initiatives that spotlight Black equestrian history and strengthen community awareness.

  • Event Details
  • Date: August 30
  • Time: 6:00 PM
  • Location: Roots 101 African American Museum, 124 N. 1st Street in downtown Louisville
  • Purpose: Benefit dinner supporting cultural preservation and historical education
  • Presented by: Prestigious Entertainment Group & Roots 101 African American Museum

Tickets are $80 and include the following: reserved seating inclusions plus one complimentary cocktail upon arrival, priority entry, and preferred table placement closest to the stage and speakers. Also, a full plated dinner, passed appetizers and priority entry into African cowboy heritage exhibition.

When you purchase your Roots and Reins tickets, you will receive a general admission ticket to the Bourbon, Blues and Boots on Saturday, September 19th in Shelbyville with Grammy-nominated artists Nappy Roots will perform. 

Prestigious Entertainment Group and Roots 101 continue their shared commitment to elevating African American heritage through immersive cultural experiences, community engagement, and storytelling that honors the past while inspiring future generations.

Roots 101 African American Museum returns as the event’s charitable partner, supporting cultural preservation and community engagement. The museum’s mission is to promote understanding and inspire appreciation of African American achievements, contributions, and experiences through exhibits, programs, and activities that illuminate the depth and richness of our history, culture, and art.

Please announce and/or post on your calendars and social platforms. If you would like to setup an interview, contact VIPP Communications at info@vippcommunications.com. For additional information visit our website at www.kyhoedown.com.

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