(MILFORD MILL, MD – April 13, 2026) — The Black Wall Street Awards returned to the Milford Mill corridor for an unforgettable evening at Island Quizine, where the food was as inspiring as the conversation. The jerk chicken alone was worth the price of admission.
But beyond the cuisine, the night carried a deep philosophical weight.
Most Worshipful Emanuel J. Stanley, 33°, set the tone early, expressing humility in the presence of so many celebrated community members. He told BMORENEWS, “It’s been an outstanding program — educational, inspirational, and motivational,” he said. “I’m humbled. I’m not sure I should even be here.”
Liberty Road icon Derrick Burnett spoke passionately about the standards and values instilled in the community, paying special homage to his mother, who was in attendance. “She set the standard — along with my father,” he said.
One of the most powerful moments of the evening came from Attorney Robert Dashiell, who delivered a public apology to Chanel, Stanley’s daughter and the youngest person in the room, on behalf of his generation. He spoke candidly about the unintended harm caused by decisions made during integration — sending Black children into environments where they were neither protected nor valued — sparking a moment of reflection that resonated throughout the room.
The business conversation ran deep, as it always does when Black Wall Street gathers. With African Americans commanding an estimated $2 trillion in annual disposable income — an economic force that would rank among the largest in the world — the stakes are real, and the urgency is undeniable.
Julian Jones, candidate for Baltimore County Executive, attended and presented citations to the honorees, underscoring the vital role small businesses play as the backbone of the American economy.
The turnout was tremendous, and special thanks go to Dave Green, Kenny Brown, Rainier Harvey, Robert Harrington, and Legacy Awards for their generous support.
A heartfelt note of gratitude also goes to Danny Blount, who was instrumental in planning the event but could not attend due to the passing of his father. Our prayers go out to Danny and his entire family.
The honorees left the evening humbled, grateful, and beaming with pride — exactly as it should be at Black Wall Street.
