Mamdani is guest speaker at NAN’s 15th Triumph Awards, Cuomo a no-show

Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani turned up as the National Action Network (NAN) celebrated its 15th Annual Triumph Awards, which featured several high-profile honorees in a star-studded event on October 6. His rival candidate, former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, while expected, was absent.

“Every year, we stop and honor those that have made a difference in the culture and in our lives,” said Rev. Al Sharpton, founder and president of NAN, who turned 71 on October 3 and belatedly celebrated his birthday at the awards show while addressing the political climate of the country. “Let me say that we meet at a time that this nation is challenged. We have probably the most insidious president that I have seen,” he said. “We can understand that justice is not an event, it’s a commitment, and we thank those in public service who will continue to partner with the National Action Network, shaping a nation that values ebony voices. We are determined to stand together, whether it is fighting for the rights of those of us that are African Americans or Latino, or Palestinian, or Jewish. All of us must be protected and not let those forces divide us.”

Taking advantage of the opportunity to speak to potential voters during the event, Mamdani also pushed back against Trump administration overreach nationwide that looms over New York.

“If we want change, if we want this to be a city where people can stay, people can join, then I think it is time for a change in our politics,” said Mamdani to a cheering crowd. He spoke about pushing back against anti-diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and troop deployments from the federal government, as well as his vision of making the city safe and affordable for all, but especially for Black New Yorkers.

Mamdani holds a 21-point lead over Cuomo in a recent Marist Poll.

Sharpton spoke about Mamdani’s long-standing relationship with NAN and record of community service, although he reiterated that NAN is nonpartisan and doesn’t endorse candidates. He said all candidates for mayor were invited to the event. Last month, Cuomo did appear on Sharpton’s MSNBC show PoliticsNation.

Cuomo’s campaign didn’t respond to a later request from the AmNews for comment.

Ariama C. Long photos

The Triumph Awards recognizes entertainment, media, community, and clergy leaders who use their platforms to elevate the fight for civil rights and social justice. This year’s honorees included prolific songwriter Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, Broadway star Stephanie Mills, MSNBC host Ari Melber; Chelsea Maddox-Dorsey, CEO of A Wonder Media Company (AWMC); and Vincent Bohanan, founder and director of Sound of Victory and Victorious Army Choirs. Soohyung Kim, Bally’s corporation chairperson, received NAN’s President Award for Community Wealth Building.

The honorees spoke about how the fight for civil rights and racial justice has shaped their lives and careers.

“I can remember times in Indianapolis, Indiana, when I was growing up and there were places that I could not go to because I was Black, and I remember how civil rights changed everything,” said Babyface at the podium. “I’m standing here today because of all those changes, and I was able to do the type of music that I do … and so I really appreciate it and I’m just so thankful.”

“I am truly honored and I’m thankful,” said Mills. “I love us. I love my Black people. I fight for us, and I want Black women to really know their worth. Know that they are queens. That’s important — that’s how my mother raised me.”

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