Rapper Ludacris was presented with the Usher Raymond Altruism Award during the 16th Annual Trumpet Awards in Atlanta on Sunday (Jan. 13).
The artist was one of twelve honorees, including actors Halle Berry and Danny Glover and BET co-founder Sheila C. Johnson, who were recognized for accomplishments in their careers and contributions to their communities.
Originally organized by Turner Broadcasting in 1993, the Trumpet Awards celebrate the accomplishments of African Americans who not only make great strides in their career or field, but also inspire others to do the same.
The Usher Raymond Altruism Award was introduced at the 2007 Trumpet Awards, which were held in Las Vegas. Raymond, a previous Trumpet honoree himself, presented the inaugural award to actor/author Hill Harper.
Ludacris has made the news several times in the last few months for his community activism and the initiatives of his Ludacris Foundation.
The Grammy nominated artist and actor also headlined the 46664 AIDS benefit concert on World AIDS Day on December 1.
The concert was held in Johannesburg and organized by former South African president Nelson Mandela, a 2004 Trumpet Awards honoree.
Hosted by actor Samuel L. Jackson and his wife LaTanya Richardson Jackson, the Awards culminated a weekend of events including an International Civil Rights Walk of Fame induction ceremony.
Previous Trumpet Honorees have also included Babyface, Russell Simmons, and Spike Lee.
The 2008 Trumpet Awards will be broadcast in syndication on TV One starting March 1.
