I am pleased to advise you of the 2026 AFM Diversity Awards Program, which will be presented at the 103rd AFM Convention. The three Diversity Awards for 2026 are: the President’s Local Award, the Charles McDaniel Youth Award, and the Charles Walton Diversity Advocate Award.

Please click the link below to access the award applications:

• The President’s Award will recognize a Local that exhibits DEIA (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility) through a diverse Executive Board, articles in the local’s newsletter, a local diversity committee, or events sponsored by the local that show diversity in various genres of music. Locals who have previously won the President’s Award are not eligible.
• The Charles Walton Diversity Advocate Award recognizes a member who has shown dedication to both unionism and community issues throughout their lifetime.
• The Charles McDaniel Youth Award recognizes individuals between 16 and 35 years of age who have demonstrated musical excellence as a young musician through their local and community.