FAITH EVANS
The Newark Museum of Art will host the first Ryder’s Room Gala for Faith Evans’ Ryder’s Room foundation, Sept. 27 at 6 p.m., with comedian Mike Epps, rapper Freeway and others performing, MC Lyte hosting, and Newark mayor Ras J. Baraka and other community leaders receiving awards.
The event will be titled “Awaken the Fire: Ignite, Empower and Elevate.” For information, visit rydersroom.org.
Evans created the foundation in 2017, naming it after her son Ryder, who has been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. According to a press release, the foundation’s goal is “to raise awareness surrounding various national issues related to Autism Spectrum Disorder and various related disabilities. The organization also seeks support in the areas of medical care, economic development, social services, and political awareness and advancement issues, especially in the Black and Brown communities, where the resources and support of disabilities are limited.
“Additionally, Evans and the Ryder’s Room team host monthly support group meetings for parents of children with different abilities.”
Evans said in the press release: “As many of my family, friends and business associates know, I am a mother first, there is nothing more important to me than my family. I’ve been on this journey with Ryder for more than 17 years, along with my newly adopted family of parents, adults, and children who are also managing and navigating a series of struggles, hardships, and challenges surrounding this disorder. We are doing our best to support each other through this journey. Ryder is doing well and I’m proud of his growth and advancement.”
This year marks the 30th anniversary of Evans’ debut album, Faith. Her major hits include “I’ll Be Missing You,” “Love Like This,” “All Night Long” and “I Love You.” She won a Grammy in 1998 (Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group, for “I’ll Be Missing You”) and has been nominated seven other times.
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