The following special tributes were created as a part of the BMAs’ commitment to Black Cinema: Past, Present & Future. Please find the 2006 honorees listed below.

The BMA Hall of Fame Distinguished Career Achievement Award

Cicely Tyson

Honoring an individual who has blazed trails, opened doors and accomplished great victories against all odds.

Sidney Poitier received this award in 2005.

Classic Cinema Hall of Fame Award

Lady Sings the Blues

Presented to a revered film that has had an indelible impact on society.

Last year The Color Purple received this award.

The Ossie Davis Humanitarian Award*

Spike Lee

for When the Levees Broke: A Requiem in Four Acts

Created to recognize an individual who has dedicated their time and resources to service the cause of others in the quest for social change.

*This award presented for the first time this year has been established to commemorate Ossie Davis’ lifetime of philanthropic work.

Excellence in the Arts Award

Laurence Fishburne

Bestowed upon an artist whose body of work exemplifies fine craftsmanship and who has made a significant and lasting contribution to motion pictures.

HBO® Director to Watch Award

Frank E. Flowers

Profiles a director who has displayed excellence in the art of filmmaking and is a beacon of light amid the next generation.