LUBBOCK, Texas - TelAve -- An Evening Celebrating Legacy, Justice, Leadership, and the Power of Remembering Our Past to Shape Our Future

LUBBOCK, Texas — Community leaders, advocates, alumni, and supporters from across the region will gather in Lubbock on July 25th at the YWCA starting at 6pm for the 2026 Sankofa Ball, an inspiring evening dedicated to honoring those whose courage, leadership, and service have transformed communities and advanced the pursuit of justice.

The evening will feature Kevin Richardson, member of the Exonerated Five, as the keynote speaker. Richardson's powerful story of resilience has inspired audiences around the world. Wrongfully convicted as a teenager and later exonerated through DNA evidence, he has become a national advocate for criminal justice reform, truth, and healing. His message challenges audiences to transform adversity into purpose while championing justice for future generations.

The Ball will also recognize Rose Wilson, one of Lubbock's most influential civil rights leaders. Wilson's lifelong commitment to equality and community service has helped shape the city's history. As a lead plaintiff in the landmark lawsuit that established single-member voting districts in Lubbock, she played a pivotal role in expanding representation and civic participation. Through decades of leadership with the NAACP and unwavering service to her community, Wilson has become a living symbol of courage, perseverance, and hope.

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"The Sankofa Ball is more than an awards celebration," said the event organizers. "It is an opportunity to pause, reflect, and honor those who have paved the way while inspiring today's leaders to continue the work. The Sankofa principle teaches us that we must look back, reclaim the wisdom of our past, and carry it forward to build a stronger future."

Derived from the Akan people of Ghana, Sankofa means "to go back and retrieve what has been forgotten." The Ball embraces this philosophy by recognizing individuals whose lives remind us that progress is built upon the sacrifices, leadership, and determination of those who came before us.

Guests will experience an evening of inspiration, recognition, fellowship, and celebration as community members, civic leaders, educators, students, and supporters come together to honor extraordinary lives and reaffirm a shared commitment to justice, equity, and opportunity.

Event Highlights
●     Keynote Address by Kevin Richardson, member of the Exonerated Five
●     Special Tribute Honoring Civil Rights Leader Rose Wilson
●     Recognition of Community Leadership and Excellence
●     Celebration of the Sankofa philosophy of heritage, resilience, and hope
●     An evening of culture, inspiration, and community

The organizers invite the public to join this unforgettable celebration of history, leadership, and purpose.

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Tickets and sponsorship opportunities remain available.

For event details, sponsorship information, or ticket purchases, visit sankofaball.rsvpify.com or contact the event organizers.

About the Sankofa Ball

The Sankofa Ball is an annual celebration recognizing individuals whose leadership, courage, and service have created lasting impact within their communities. Inspired by the African principle of Sankofa—"to go back and retrieve what has been forgotten"—the Ball honors those who preserve history, advance justice, and inspire future generations to lead with integrity, compassion, and purpose.

The Marshall's Mantle Foundation

is committed to advancing social justice, empowering marginalized communities, and fostering community uplift. Inspired by the legacy of Thurgood Marshall, we strive to create civic engagement and positive change through education, advocacy, and intentional collaborative efforts.

About Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity

Founded in 1906 at Cornell University, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. is the nation's first intercollegiate fraternity established for African American men. For more than a century, Alpha Phi Alpha has developed leaders, promoted academic excellence, and provided advocacy and service to communities throughout the world. Distinguished members include Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Thurgood Marshall, Paul Robeson, Edward Brooke, and countless leaders in business, education, medicine, government, and public service.

Media Contact

Omicron Epsilon Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated
Sankofa Ball Committee
Phone: 806-789-2192
Email: omicronepsilonlambda1906@gmail.com