How Karen Bankhead—and Miss Etta May Mumphries—Became Part of the Gala Legacy
You don’t forget a woman like Karen Bankhead — because she doesn’t just enter a room. She changes it.
I didn’t know her personally the day we met. She was checking into the Hawthorne Inn during the National Black Theatre Festival, and I instantly recognized her. I had seen her before — on stage, on screen, and most memorably, in character.
That character?
Miss Etta May Mumphries.
Church hat, pearls, full voice, full volume — and full of hilarious truth.
Part southern wisdom, part church secretary sass, and part no-nonsense elder who’s not afraid to tell you about yourself while reminding you she’s got butterscotch in her purse.
So I walked up to her, introduced myself, and said, “I know who you are — and what you do is brilliant.”
Then I told her about the work we were doing — about the gala, the community, and our mission to uplift Black voices and preserve Black joy.
Without hesitation, she smiled and said, “Sure, I’d love to host.”
No rider. No ego. Just grace.
And that’s exactly what she brought to the stage.
Karen lit up the room with her kindness, quick wit, and radiant spirit. Whether she was on mic or mingling with guests, her presence reminded us what the gala is really about: joy, connection, and honoring the fullness of who we are.
She didn’t need to play Miss Etta May that night — because the real Karen was just as funny, just as warm, and just as unforgettable.
Now, ten years later, we’ve invited her to return to Harlem to help host our 10-year anniversary gala — and we couldn’t imagine it without her.
🎟️ Join us Friday, October 10, 2025
The Harlem Collective Gala — A celebration of legacy, laughter, and full-circle moments.
Reserve your ticket: www.moodmagazinenyc.org/gala
