Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson declares Patti Labelle Day to commemorate the legend.
On Dec. 17, attendees at the Christmas Gala Fundraiser hosted by Dallas Southern Pride enjoyed an intimate opening night concert by legendary artist Patti Labelle. The event was held downtown at the Fairmont Dallas benefitted Abounding Prosperity Inc., an organization dedicated to providing services addressing health, social, and economic disparities among Black Americans, particularly gay and bisexual men, cisgender women, transgender people, and their families. To honor the renowned singer, actress, and businesswoman, Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson, along with the city council, declared Dec. 17, 2022, to be Patti Labelle Day in the city of Dallas.
Nearly 1,000 people attended the black-tie event, which included a silent auction, raffles, champagne, and catering stations. All proceeds will fund Dallas Southern Pride’s and Abounding Prosperity’s programs, including vaccine clinics, free healthcare screenings, and relief assistance funds that help offset the cost of essential services to Black and Brown communities, with an emphasis on LGBTQ+ communities and their families in South Dallas and surrounding areas.
“We help people year-round, but the holidays are a great time to show appreciation for those who support our cause and the community, as well as encourage continued advocacy and assistance because our job is not done yet,” says Kirk Myers-Hill, president of Dallas Southern Pride. “Contributing to Dallas Southern Pride and Abounding Prosperity allows us to continue to provide services to the community where no one gets turned away.”
The event was followed by the Naughty and Nice Christmas party that night and a gospel brunch the next day. Other entertainers included rapper Kash Doll, R&B and gospel singer Kelly Price, gospel singer Le’Andria Johnson, and gospel singer, actress, and morning show host Yolanda Adams.
