Black Excellence Brunch heads to White House in family-style celebration of Black culture

Trell Thomas first started the Black Excellence Brunch series back in 2018, and now the movement has reached one of the most coveted venues in the world — the White House.

Thomas partnered with the president's palace to host his widely known, family-style brunch on the historic South Lawn on Friday afternoon.

Joined by President Joe Biden, some of culture's most prominent figures across industries put on all-white attire and ascended to the nation's capital for the purpose of highlighting and celebrating Black culture, history and excellence.

The brunch was filled music, laughter and a sense of pride. Thomas was amongst those to give remarks along with President Biden, who was introduced by Marsai Martin — an American actress and the youngest person to produce a film.

All speakers emphasized the importance of making space for and elevating Black excellence. And this theme continued throughout the all-white affair.

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Grammy Award-winning singer Monica put on a stellar performance, which prompted most guests to stand to their feet and sing along in unison.

Other high-profile attendees included life coach and TV personality Iyanla Vanzant, actor and comedian Anthony Anderson, former Destiny's Child member and singer LeToya Luckett, Beyoncé's publicist Yvette Noel-Schure, media guru Karen Civil and ntaional journalist Roland Martin — to name a few.

At times, though, some of the most powerful moments didn't involve words but rather imagery that consisted of a predominantly Black guest list with a sense of camaraderie and empowerment at the core. And the backdrop of the White House echoed a future of infinite possibilities, especially at a time when the world has seen the first Black woman to lead a major-party ticket during a presidential election in the U.S.

“Bringing Black Excellence Brunch to the White House is not just a dream come true, but a powerful statement about the significance of Black culture and achievement in America," Thomas said in a statement. "This event is a tribute to the resilience, talent, and beauty of the Black community, and I am honored to celebrate it in such a historic and meaningful setting."

As founder and CEO, Thomas first created the family-style brunch as a way to pay homage to Sunday dinners that were a signature at his home in South Carolina. Since beginning the movement, the brunches have expanded across the U.S. and overseas to places like South Africa and Ghana.

And since its inception, the event has served as a liaison from traditions of the past to the possibilities of the future.

Thomas has used the brunch to commemorate some of culture's biggest moments, including with the Country Music Association, for "The Color Purple" film and on Mother's Day.

Follow Caché McClay, the USA TODAY Network's Beyoncé Knowles-Carter reporter, on Instagram, TikTok and X as @cachemcclay.

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