I was on Martha’s Vineyard this past weekend to celebrate the release of the 2014 list of The Root 100 in Edgartown. Each year, The Root releases its The Root 100, a list of the most influential African Americans ages 25–45 who have made an impact in the country. This year’s honorees were no exception.
Scandal and Grey’s Anatomy creator and director Shonda Rhimes made the list and was in attendance at the fete. She has a new show coming out this fall starring with Viola Davis. How To Get Away with Murder will give Ms. Rhimes three prime time shows that will run back-to-back on Thursday nights on ABC network.
Being Mary Jane creator and director Mara Brock Akil, also made the list and attended the event. Her show show, starring Gabrielle Union, returns for its second season this fall on BET. Former NAACP head Ben Jealous, who topped the list last year, also made the list. Comedian Kevin Hart, activist Feminsta Jones, along with Jay-Z and Beyonce Knowles also made The Root 100 2014 List. The rankings for the list will be unveiled in September.
Actress Gugu Mbatha-Raw and film director Amma Asante of the new film Belle, were also in attendance at the event. They’re both pictured above with Peniel Joseph and Dr. Henry Louise Gates Jr.
The Infiniti sponsored event was held at the Dr. Daniel Fisher house with many influential vacationing African Americans in attendance. The automotive brand even showcased one of its new Q50 sports sedans at the event. Guests noshed on lite bites by Tea Lane Caterers that included mini lobster rolls, macaroni and cheese bites, caprese skewers and mini gelato cones; and sipped on wines by Joseph Carr, Enza Prosecco and Eppa sangria.
Marriott Hotels served as the supporting sponsor of the event and unveiled its new campaign, #LoveTravels at the event. Guests posed for photos with the #LoveTravels hashtag board and were given InstaPrint printouts after tagging their Instagram photos. Donna Byrd, The Root publisher, editor-in-chief Dr. Henry Louise Gates Jr. and managing editor Lyne Pitts, praised all of this year’s honorees.
It wouldn’t be a party without some fab goodies. Guests received a branded Cutter & Buck tote bag filled with an Infiniti wine bottle opener, Shea Yeleen lip balms and body bal, Oyin beauty products, Shea Moisture hair products, Mario Badescu enzyme cleanser and Kobo Candles. Infiniti also awarded a $500 gift card to State Road Restaurant, a Bose SoundTouch 20 Wireless Speaker, and a 1st & Bryant ‘DuBois” Utility tote bag to three lucky winners who used the dedicated hashtag #InfinitiRoot100.
Without further adieu, here are The Root 100 2014 Honorees.
