Trailblazing Ky. Representative Darryl Owens memorialized at Black History Celebration in Capitol Rotunda

WUKY | By Karyn Czar

Published February 8, 2022 at 3:31 PM EST

Brenda Owens, widow of Representative Daryl Owens accepts the 2022 Kentucky Black Legislative Caucus Legacy award from Representative Derrick Graham

After having to celebrate virtually last year, the Black History Celebration presented by the Kentucky Black Legislative Caucus returned to the Rotunda at the Kentucky State Capitol. WUKY’s Karyn Czar reports from Frankfort.

The Black history program began with prayer led by Pastor Richard Gaines and followed by 10-year-old D’Corey Johnson’s rendition of ‘Lift Every Voice and Sing’ echoing throughout the Capitol.

Members of the Black Legislative Caucus touched on bills that are being considered during this legislative session that they say promote inclusivity and equity in the Commonwealth. The hour-long event capped off with the 2022 Legacy Award which was presented posthumously to Kentucky Civil Rights icon Representative Darryl Owens and was accepted by his widow Brenda Owens.

Representative Derrick Graham made the presentation, saying Owens paved the way for him and so many others, calling him a mentor and a friend.

Owens died on January 4^th after battling Parkinson’s disease and cancer. He was 84.