Civil Rights and broadcasting icon Xernona Clayton to visit Manatee County

Civil rights icon and broadcasting legend Xernona Clayton will visit Manatee County this weekend to share the impact of her life’s journey, historic achievements, and commitment to equality.

Clayton’s visit will culminate in a celebration of her life and achievements on Saturday at the Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa. Dignitaries from across the world will attend the sold-out event to honor the global significance of Ms. Clayton’s work as they celebrate her 96th birthday.

Clayton has served as a guide for progress since the 1960s, when she was recruited to work with the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and became a close confidante to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King during some of the most pivotal moments in American history.

Clayton helped create the model to desegregate hospitals in Atlanta, an initiative that was later replicated nationwide. In 1968, her influence helped convince the Grand Dragon of the Ku Klux Klan to publicly denounce the organization.

“We’re honored to bring Ms. Clayton to the Bradenton Area,” said Elliott Falcione, executive director of the Bradenton Area Convention & Visitors Bureau. “Her legacy continues to resonate today and continues helping us all embrace unity, cultural understanding, and leadership.”

As the first black television host in the South, with the debut of The Xernona Clayton Show on Atlanta’s WAGA-TV back in 1967, Clayton shattered barriers. She later spent nearly 30 years at Turner Broadcasting as the Corporate Vice President for Urban Affairs, working closely with Ted Turner, advising CNN, Headline News, and professional teams – the Atlanta Braves and Atlanta Hawks.

In 1993, Clayton created the internationally acclaimed Trumpet Awards. This prestigious event is broadcast internationally in more than 185 countries and on 27 battleships, highlighting African American accomplishments and contributions.