The Equal Opportunity Awards Gala

The Gala is our most significant fundraising event of the year. More importantly, it affords us the opportunity to celebrate our Volunteer of the Year, Minority Business, Corporate Leadership and Whitney M. Young Jr. Lifetime Achievement award winners.

And, the evening is always a celebration to remember, with good food and fellowship and top-flight music provided by acts such as Jeffrey Osborne, The Whispers, The Spinners, The Temptations, The O’Jays, En Vogue, Boney James, Morris Day & The Time, James “JT” Taylor, formerly the voice of Kool & The Gang, and Tower of Power!

The Gala also provides an excellent opportunity for networking with top area business professionals, and an investment in a corporate table is a good investment for local businesses.

The Equal Opportunity Awards Gala is a lot of fun, and we hope to see you there! Held the fourth Thursday of October each year, the gala is a must-do business event.

2021 Equal Opportunity Awards Gala
Oct. 28, 2021
Knoxville Convention Center

Reception 5:30pm

Dinner, Entertainment and Awards 6:30pm 

2021 Gala COVID-19 Protocols

Our COVID-19 protocols for the 2021 Equal Opportunity Awards Gala will mirror those in place at local event venues. Masks are required unless actively eating or drinking. Guests will be required to show proof of vaccination or results of a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours prior to the event. For sponsored tables, please provide the information to your table hosts. Individual ticketholders may email vaccination proof to aestes@thekaul.org or show proof of a negative test at the check in table on the day of the event. Thank you for helping us ensure the safety of all guests.

Sponsorships and Donations

Fundraising is critical to the Urban League’s ability to provide programs and services to the community. Gala sponsorship is an important part of our fundraising. Sponsors include a diverse group of corporate, government and community leaders, providing prime exposure opportunities for your organization. Sponsors also are recognized on video screens, during the awards program and in our souvenir program. Contact us at 865-524-5511 to find out how you can make a difference in the lives of so many through your support, or you may choose to simply make a donation below.