Local photographer honored at City’s Black History program
Photos by Martinez Milton, Jr.
On Tuesday, February 28, 2023 the City of Milwaukee’s “7th Annual Black History Program” was held at the City Hall Rotunda. The program was put on by Alderpersons Milele Coggs, Mark Chambers, Jr., Khalif Rainey and Russell W. Stamper II. The Living Legend Award went to Yvonne Kemp, who was born in Racine, Wisconsin, but raised in Milwaukee. She attended Seifert Elementary School and graduated from North Division High School. After a 30-year career as an accountant, Yvonne eagerly accepted an offer from her brother, renowned photographer Harry Kemp, to work as his assistant after initially handling scheduling and accounting for Harry. When Harry died, Yvonne stepped in to fulfill several of his contracts, including a prestigious position as a photographer for the Milwaukee Brewers, the Milwaukee Community Journal and the Milwaukee Times Weekly Newspaper. Nearly a decade and a half later, Yvonne emerged as one of the city’s most prominent photographers, having built an impressive resume and reputation. The Common Council also awarded the Emerging Leadership award to Jeremiah Johnson.
