The Mayor’s Arts Awards is the most prestigious honor the city bestows upon the arts, humanities, and creative community. 

    Alexa Alice Joubin (George Washington University) and Rebecca Lemos Otero (Executive Director, Humanities D.C.) co-presented the 38th Washington DC Mayor’s Arts Awards at the historic Lincoln Theatre. Here is a video recording. 

     The humanities award honors an individual, group, nonprofit organization, or private entity that has made significant contributions in the humanities in the District of Columbia through the direct practice and/or production of their work. Humanities disciplines may include but are not limited to literature, history, language, philosophy, anthropology, archeology, musicality, religion, and social science.

    The event took place at Lincoln Theatre and was produced by the Office of Cable Television, Film, Music, and Entertainment (OCTFME) and the Creative Affairs Office (CAO). The theme of this year’s awards is “Born Bold.”

     “Every year, the Mayor’s Arts Awards allows us to celebrate and shine a spotlight on the artists and creatives who keep DC vibrant,” said Mayor Bowser. “Tonight’s ‘Born Bold’ 38th Annual Mayor’s Arts Awards was a true testament to the unparalleled talent that calls Washington, DC home,” said the Director of the Office of Cable Television, Film, Music, and Entertainment LaToya Foster. “From the opening act to the final curtain call, our city’s gifted artists unequivocally showcased that when it comes to talent, our city stands second to none.” 

    This year’s Award for Excellence in the Humanities went to the KRoussaw Foundation.