By: Lennard James
This November, Michael Dockery’s vision for the “Stomp the City” ICONIC Awards Show goes far beyond honoring achievements in music and the arts. Scheduled for November 1-3, 2024, in Memphis, Tennessee, the event will not only celebrate the talents and contributions of artists, community leaders, and changemakers, but also serve as a rallying cry to address the gun violence crisis impacting Memphis and cities across the nation. Dockery has taken his advocacy to new heights, calling for changes to gun laws in Tennessee with hopes that his message will resonate with Governor Bill Lee and others in positions of power.
Michael Dockery’s ICONIC Awards Show has always been about highlighting excellence, but this year, it’s also about transformation. “Stomp the City” is now a symbol for both celebration and change. For Dockery, the issue is personal and urgent; he hopes the event will mobilize a collective call for action to address the devastating effects of gun violence. “This year’s awards are not just about honoring talent,” Dockery says, “but about using our platform to advocate for change in Tennessee’s gun laws. Memphis is a city rich in history and culture, but our people are suffering, and something has to be done.”
Photo Courtesy: Michael Dockery
Founder Michael Dockery, Rep. Joe Towns Jr, Apostle Mardia Scott, Comm. Mickell Lowery and Mayor Lee Harris and others
The three-day event will kick off with a Black-Tie Gala on Friday, November 1, welcoming prominent figures from the entertainment, business, and philanthropic sectors. In addition to recognizing artistic excellence, the gala will serve as a fundraiser to support Memphis organizations actively working to prevent gun violence and support young people in the community. Dockery’s initiative aims to send a message to lawmakers, emphasizing that it’s time to create safer environments for Memphis and beyond. He hopes his appeal will reach the ears of Tennessee Governor Bill Lee, whose influence could help bring meaningful reform.
The celebration continues on Saturday, November 2, with the Stomp the City Celebrity Day Party dynamic event designed to foster community connections while keeping the issue of violence prevention at the forefront. Set to feature live music, celebrity appearances, and Memphis’s unique blend of Southern hospitality, the party aims to unite people in solidarity and promote meaningful dialogue. Dockery emphasizes that the Celebrity Day Party is more than entertainment; it’s an opportunity to educate, inform, and raise awareness. The event will also include informational booths from organizations committed to reducing violence and supporting affected families.
Photo Courtesy: www.stompthecityiconicawards.com / Michael Dockery
On Sunday, November 3, the weekend culminates with the ICONIC Awards Show at the Cannon Center for Performing Arts. With over 61 celebrities and notable guests, including elected officials, community leaders, and prominent figures, the event will be both a celebration and a call to action. Dockery has made clear that the awards are not just about honoring achievements, but also about amplifying the voices calling for legislative change in Tennessee. Through Dockery’s leadership, the ICONIC Awards Show is now a vehicle for social transformation, rallying the community, law enforcement, and legislators to take proactive steps toward safer communities.
Dockery’s goal is to address the rising tide of violence by advocating for tighter gun laws and community support, hoping to inspire Governor Lee to take meaningful action. “Memphis music raised me, and our artists and leaders have a responsibility to make sure future generations feel safe in this city,” Dockery explains. “I’m hopeful that our message will reach Governor Lee and lawmakers across the state. We need support to protect our communities.”
With segments and performances dedicated to raising awareness about the impact of gun violence, the ICONIC Awards Show is Dockery’s appeal for legislative action, blending Memphis’s artistic spirit with a deep commitment to safety and progress. Dockery believes in the power of the arts to communicate urgent social messages, and this year, the ICONIC Awards aim to leave a lasting impact.
Dockery’s advocacy for gun law reform and community outreach aligns with the mission of the ICONIC Awards. By amplifying the voices of those who demand change, the “Stomp the City” weekend represents the resilience and strength of Memphis. As Dockery and his team prepare to welcome guests from around the world, the ICONIC Awards are poised to make a powerful statement.
This November, Dockery’s vision for the ICONIC Awards Show transcends music and art, offering a bold message of unity, resilience, and commitment to a brighter future for Memphis and beyond. Home – Stomp The City Iconic Awards
Published by: Holy Minoza
