Black women were honored Thursday at the B.R.O.T.H.E.R.S. 12th annual Tribute to Black Women.

Christian Marshall, vice president of B.R.O.T.H.E.R.S., said the event is held every year to spotlight achievements of black women on campus and to pay tribute to them.

Karega Harris, emcee and member of B.R.O.T.H.E.R.S., said the women in the audience truly deserved to be honored.

“We [B.R.O.T.H.E.R.S.] feel it is our duty and privilege to give thanks to the women in our lives,” he said.

Jonathan Harvey, president of B.R.O.T.H.E.R.S., said achievements of black women often go unnoticed. He said this event reminds black women they are appreciated.

Upon arriving, black women were given red and white carnations and escorted to tables by members of B.R.O.T.H.E.R.S.

The event began with the members of B.R.O.T.H.E.R.S. reciting the African pledge. Then the audience members along with B.R.O.T.H.E.R.S. stood and recited the black national anthem.

The main speaker, Ramonski Luv, a radio personality for 102.7 V103 and an NIU alumnus, introduced himself and read his accomplishments. In his speech, Luv addressed the men in the audience and told them the importance of black women.

“Black women are queens,” he said in his speech. He said it takes a very confident man to appreciate and uplift black women.

Luv proceeded to present the awards to the winners. Although there was only one winner for most categories, all the nominees went home with something. The winner received a plaque and the nominees received certificates.

Kristal Sutton, winner of the Up and Coming Leader award, said the award was not won by her efforts alone.

“I feel honored and I thank God for entrusting me with this leadership ability,” Sutton said.

Lonnie Pollard, an inactive member of B.R.O.T.H.E.R.S., said he was pleased with the turnout of event and its purpose.

“I am glad B.R.O.T.H.E.R.S. decided to sponsor this event, “ he said. “Black women have been, are and continue to be the backbone of any successful black man.”