[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 82 (Thursday, May 15, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E439]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        CELEBRATING DAWNA DURHAM

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. TIMOTHY M. KENNEDY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 15, 2025

  Mr. KENNEDY of New York. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize and 
honor an exceptional individual, Ms. Dawna Durham, whose impact in the 
fields of entertainment, literature, and community service have been 
nothing short of inspiring. As a creative and compassionate leader, Ms. 
Durham has left a permanent mark on both her community and the social 
setting of Western New York.
  As an event planner, Ms. Durham has arranged some of the Western New 
York's most iconic events, including The Health Care Ball, The Homage 
Awards, Wild 'N Out Buffalo Style, Buffalo Soul Train, and Wild 'N Out 
Bingo. These events celebrate art, fashion and culture, while also 
uplifting our community and shining light on local talents.
  In addition to her talents in event planning, Ms. Durham is a gifted 
author and playwright. Her compelling book, There's Nothing Like A 
Woman Scorned, illustrates a powerful display of resilience and 
emotion--purchased by readers across the Nation. Ms. Durham explores 
complex and challenging aspects of life in her literary works, 
including Love Hurts, Forgive Me Beloved, The Nursing Home, A Struggle 
of a Man, and Hurt People, Hurt People. Her writing is characterized by 
its candidness and distinct stylistic approach. Ms. Durham's play Love 
Hurts was so impactful that it earned her a formal proclamation from 
the Mayor of Niagara Falls in 2011, a testament to the profound effects 
her storytelling has had on the community.
  Ms. Durham's impact reaches far beyond the world of arts. As a 
dedicated philanthropist and community leader, she freely shares her 
time and talents to organize events that empower and uplift those in 
need. Her humility and selflessness shine through every project she 
undertakes, touching lives and inspiring others along the way.
  Her entrepreneurial spirit is exemplified through her diverse 
ventures, including the founding of influential organizations such as 
the 716 Ebony Essence Awards, Yo716, The Homage Awards LLC, Destiny 
Production and Management, Better With Time LLC, alongside impactful 
media initiatives like Destiny Talk Show, Let's Talk Fashion with 
Destiny, and her own reality series, Taste of Life.
  In recognition of her many contributions, Ms. Durham has received 
several well-deserved accolades, including the Buffalo Babes Award in 
2022 and the Black Excellence Award in 2023.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating Ms. 
Durham's many accomplishments and dedication to uplifting others. Her 
creativity, passion, and commitment to her community makes her a role 
model for generations to come.

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