The Bounce Trumpet Awards recognize those who augment the richness of our great global society by partnering with the cause of justice and equality of all. The Awards were created to herald the accomplishments of Black humanitarians who have succeeded against immense odds. Special recognition is given to the few, symbolic of the many, who have overcome the ills of racism and poverty and achieved greatness. Featuring some of the biggest names in television, film, music, politics and the arts, the event has been televised annually for 30 years and distributed internationally to over 185 countries around the world. Past honorees include such luminaries as Muhammad Ali, Maya Angelou, Ray Charles, President Nelson Mandela, Beyoncé, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, and many more.

The mission of the Bounce Trumpet Awards is to inspire, educate, stimulate and enlighten human minds to the reality that success, achievement and respect are void of color and gender, honoring those who have made significant contributions to “the quality of life for all.”

Those who, through consistency and longevity, have achieved success in a chosen profession or career are eligible for consideration. Potential honorees are those persons who are viewed not only for what they have individually achieved but also for the achievement they inspire in others.

The Bounce Trumpet Awards were originally presented by Turner Broadcasting in 1993 before being transferred to The Trumpet Awards Foundation, Inc. the following year. 2017 represented a new chapter for the Awards when Bounce, the nation’s first broadcast television network designed for African American audiences, acquired all assets for the venerable Awards from the Foundation, bringing a renewed focus to the awards.