On Sunday, Aug. 25, the Little 5 Points Alliance will host the third annual “People Make the Place” to recognize the individuals and organizations who have made the district a unique, colorful, and welcoming space.
The event will be held in L5P at 7 Stages Theatre from 5 to 7:30 p.m.
The Alliance will posthumously recognize Mayor Maynard Jackson with the 2024 Don Bender Legacy Award for his direct role in Little 5 Points’ revitalization. Valerie Jackson, Don Bender, and Ruth Wall will share their experiences about Jackson’s work on the ground in the neighborhood, his support for small businesses, and his efforts to prevent a highway from destroying the community.
“Atlantans know about Jackson’s leadership on issues like minority access to contracts, airport expansion, and creation of the NPU system, but many don’t realize how integral his leadership was to the Little 5 Points renewal,” said Alliance executive director Lauren Welsh.
The 2024 Uplift Award will be given to Harlon Joye, the founder of WRFG 89.3 and host of the longest-running radio show in Atlanta. Harlon will be joined by Barbara Joye and Abdul Mannan to share stories about creating the city’s first racially integrated radio station and challenges with being placed on both the FBI’s and Atlanta Police Department’s watch list for progressive stances on issues related to race, gender, and equity.
Additional honorees include Chris McPherson of BOND Community Federal Credit Union and Wilma Stone of The Wrecking Bar.
The “Spirit of L5P Award” – which includes nominees Julie Odom of Star Bar, Paul Cornwell of The Pot Shop, Harry DeMille of Wax “N’ Facts, and the Outkast Mural – . will be announced at the event.
“People Make the Place” will include a variety show program with Dad’s Garage improv, storytelling by local leaders, and a performance by Margo Moorer from Pearl Cleage’s “Something’s Moving: a Meditation on Maynard,” which recently sold out multiple shows at the Alliance Theatre.
People Make the Place is the annual fundraiser of the L5P Alliance. Proceeds from the event go to support the Alliance and its partners to improve public safety, mobility & placemaking, and arts & culture in the district. Tickets are $50 and can be purchased at l5pa.com/people-make-the-place.