Andra Day to Receive Harry Chapin Humanitarian Award for Activism & Music

Andra Day to be Honored with 2026 Harry Chapin Humanitarian Award

Singer, songwriter, and actress Andra Day will receive the prestigious Harry Chapin Humanitarian Award at the annual WhyHunger Chapin Awards Gala on May 6, 2026, at Cipriani 25 in New York City. The award recognizes individuals who leverage their public platform to advocate for a more just and equitable world, a mission deeply aligned with Day’s own philanthropic and artistic endeavors. This recognition highlights not only Day’s musical achievements – including the platinum success of “Rise Up” – but also her commitment to social justice issues.

WhyHunger and the Legacy of Harry Chapin

The Harry Chapin Humanitarian Award is presented by WhyHunger, a global nonprofit organization dedicated to ending hunger and championing the human right to nutritious food. Founded in 1975 by the late singer-songwriter Harry Chapin, WhyHunger continues to build on Chapin’s legacy of activism. Chapin, known for his socially conscious lyrics and tireless advocacy, understood the interconnectedness of hunger, poverty, and social injustice. The Chapin Awards Gala serves as a crucial fundraising event for WhyHunger’s ongoing programs and initiatives.

Day’s Advocacy: Beyond the Music

Andra Day’s commitment extends far beyond her musical artistry. She has been a vocal advocate for juvenile justice system reform, social and racial justice, and women’s rights. Her involvement in the 2020 PlayOn benefit concert, which raised funds for both WhyHunger and the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, demonstrates her dedication to supporting organizations working on the front lines of social change. Day’s advocacy is rooted in a belief that justice is not an abstract concept, but a tangible reality impacting everyday lives – access to food, nourishment for children, and hope for communities.

A History of Honorees: Joining a Distinguished Group

Andra Day joins a remarkable roster of past recipients of the Harry Chapin Humanitarian Award. Previous honorees include music icons like Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo, Barbra Streisand, Elvis Costello, Emmylou Harris, and Harry Belafonte, as well as influential figures such as Jon Batiste, Darryl “DMC” McDaniels, and Tom Morello. This lineage underscores the award’s significance within the artistic and activist communities. The inclusion of such diverse talents speaks to the broad reach of WhyHunger’s mission and the power of artists to inspire positive change.

“Rise Up” and its Resonance

Day’s 2015 single, “Rise Up,” has become an anthem of resilience and hope, resonating with audiences worldwide. The song’s message of perseverance in the face of adversity aligns perfectly with WhyHunger’s work to empower communities and address the root causes of hunger. As Day herself stated, the song began as a personal mantra but unexpectedly evolved into a powerful symbol of justice and healing. The song’s success paved the way for a Grammy nomination and a subsequent Grammy win, as well as an Academy Award nomination for “Stand Up for Something” from the Marshall soundtrack.

What’s Next: The Chapin Awards Gala and Beyond

The Chapin Awards Gala on May 6th promises to be an evening of celebration and solidarity, bringing together artists, activists, and supporters to benefit WhyHunger’s vital work. The event will feature a cocktail reception, dinner, and live music. Looking ahead, WhyHunger continues to expand its impact, having connected 6.6 million people to food and invested $9.6 million in community-led solutions globally in the last five years. The organization’s ongoing efforts are crucial in addressing the complex challenges of food insecurity and promoting a more equitable food system.