Dazzling Black Hat Divas celebrate their anniversary in elegant fashion

A sisterhood determined to uplift its members celebrated its anniversary with elegance.

The Dazzling Black Hat Divas celebrated its 13th anniversary filled with glitz and glamour at the Elks Lodge at 2505 NE Ninth St. on Friday night.

The theme was a masquerade ball with the colors black, silver and diamonds as the required fashion. Some ladies wore rhinestone necklaces, bracelets, masquerade masks, tiaras and pins with the words, ‘Got It, Flaunt It,’ ‘Sassy’ and ‘Diva.’

Mission of group is to empower, fellowship and assist

“Our goal is to empower, fellowship and assist our diva sisters in any way we can,” said Janie Cody, a longtime Black Hat Diva member. “We create a strong sisterhood that enjoys each other. Whenever a member has a cause to support, we make sure to support that.”

The Black Hat Divas is a social organization that was created after ladies decided to wear black and accessories to celebrate “Black Friday, the discount shopping event after Thanksgiving.

Music during the event was provided by Chris Williams, an Atlanta-based disc jockey, and those attending participated in a raffle to win gift baskets. Those attending also enjoyed a four-course meal and a cash bar.

Sam Haywood, the exalted ruler (president) of the Elks Lodge, said the main goal for hosting events is to make sure those attending the lodge have a great experience.

“We try to have a pleasurable environment to put on successful activities as long as it’s respectful,” Haywood said.

Cody said she enjoys the annual Black Hat Diva convention in Cary, North Carolina, in July and giving back to the community through giveaways. She also admires the members willingness to be there for families during difficult times.

Black Hat Divas are there for one another

“We recently lost a member,” Cody said. “Her name was Lillie McGee and she was 83 years old. Our members made sure the family had anything they needed. Whatever act of kindness they needed, we were able to do that.”

Susie Mosley, the Queen (president) of the Black Hat Divas, said she admired the ladies’ outfits throughout the night.

“The ladies went out tonight and we’re glad to have them,” Mosley said.

Annette Kleckley said it is important to cherish life with those you love.

“I’m glad to be back with my sisters to enjoy life,” Kleckley said. “Life is short.”

Betty Reaves said she loves the uplifting conversations she has with the members.

“I love the sisterhood,” Reaves said. “I love walking with them and inspiring each other.”

Sherrian Thomas, the vice queen of the Black Hat Divas, said she values the diverse group of women in the organization.

“Women go through many things so we try to offer a lot of support,” Thomas said.

She said she enjoys attending concerts, plays, brunches, movies, and creating crafts with her black hat diva sisters.

“Sometimes you need to get away and come mingle with other women,” Thomas said. “I love seeing people come out and have a good time.”

Tim and Marilyn Duncan traveled from Jacksonville to attend the celebration.

“It’s always exciting to see the different themes every year,” Marilyn Duncan said. “I love the sisterhood and the fellowship.”

“It is an excellent gathering that my wife is a part of,” Tim Duncan said. “The guys came out but tonight is all about the ladies. We look forward to being here.”

For more information about the Gainesville Black Hat Divas, call 352-283-2777

This article originally appeared on The Gainesville Sun: Black sisterhood celebrates their anniversary in elegant fashion