Urban One Honored By Congress for 40 Years of Service to the Black Community
Politicians are paying homage to Urban One, Inc. in celebration of the media giant’s 40th anniversary. On Christmas Eve, the company announced that its founder, Cathy Hughes, and CEO Andre Liggins III were recognized by Congress for their service to the Black community. Hughes was also inducted in the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) Hall of Fame.
Rep. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.) and Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) recognized Hughes’ achievements on the floors of the US House of Representatives and US Senate. In their tributes, both acknowledged the role that Urban One has played in the national media landscape.
“Mr. President, I rise today to honor a tenacious entrepreneur, visionary radio personality, and powerful advocate for the African American community, Cathy Hughes,” Sen. Van Hollen said. “This year, her pioneering radio company, Urban One, celebrated 40 years on the air. Cathy Hughes has left an indelible mark on the State of Maryland and inspired millions of listeners across the country.”
Rep. Holmes Norton acknowledged the contribution of Liggins–Hughes’ son and business partner–who took the company public in 1999.
“In 1999, at the recommendation of her son, who had received his MBA at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, Cathy Hughes became the first African American woman to chair a publicly held corporation” Holmes Norton said. “I ask the House of Representatives to join me in recognizing the accomplishments of Cathy Hughes on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of Urban One.”
“I am deeply humbled by this prestigious recognition and grateful that Urban One’s contributions are now a part of our nation’s Congressional record,” Hughes said. “The year 2020 will long be remembered as a year that challenged and changed our country, and while we faced unprecedented trials, this honor and our opportunity to be of service to the black community are among the highest distinctions we have received.”
Hughes was also inducted into the NABJ Hall of Fame along with other noted media professionals, including senior correspondents and FOX NFL reporter Pam Oliver and Chicago Sun Times columnist Mary Mitchell.
