March 17th has officially been proclaimed Eric Monte Day in Stonecrest, Georgia, marking a well-deserved tribute to a visionary who reshaped the landscape of television and film. This momentous occasion, curated by his daughter and granddaughter, honors the profound impact of a man whose storytelling redefined Black narratives in Hollywood.

A Day of Celebration at Topgolf Atlanta

To celebrate this historic milestone, we gathered at Topgolf Atlanta for an event filled with laughter, camaraderie, and heartfelt appreciation for Monte’s contributions. Connecting with the legend himself, along with his family, was an unforgettable experience—one that truly highlighted the magnitude of his influence on entertainment.

Eric Monte’s work broke barriers and paved the way for authentic Black storytelling. As the creative mind behind classics such as:
✅ Good Times
✅ The Jeffersons
✅ What’s Happening!!
✅ Cooley High

He challenged stereotypes, fought for accurate representation, and created characters that resonated across generations. His boldness in the industry didn’t just entertain—it sparked change.

A Personal Reflection: Inspiration to Keep Dreaming

Spending the day celebrating Eric Monte was more than just an event—it was an inspiration. I was deeply moved by his unwavering spirit, his youthful energy, and his kindness. Despite all he has accomplished, he remains full of life, wisdom, and a constant smile. Watching him take a few swings on the green with everyone was a reminder that no matter where life takes us, we should never stop dreaming.

This experience solidified my mission—to continue creating for the people I represent, to tell stories that matter, and to uplift voices that need to be heard. Eric Monte’s legacy is not just in the shows he created, but in the creatives he continues to inspire.

A Special Thank You

A huge thank you to Mr. Adassa, owner of AHi! Hot Pepper Sauce, for joining in the celebration of Eric Monte’s legacy. Your presence at the event was truly appreciated, and your continued support for culture, community, and storytelling does not go unnoticed.

I was especially honored to celebrate this moment alongside my fellow filmmaker, Ronald Taylor. As the creative minds behind Meet the Snows, we are passionate about pushing the boundaries of storytelling. Being part of this event and sharing space with a legend like Eric Monte reaffirmed my commitment to creating meaningful, impactful stories that honor those who paved the way for us.

A Legacy That Will Not Be Forgotten

His granddaughter expressed gratitude to the City of Stonecrest’s Film Department for officially honoring her grandfather’s legacy. But the celebration doesn’t stop here—talks are underway to secure Eric Monte’s place in history, including a Hollywood Walk of Fame star. If you or someone you know can help honor Eric Monte’s legacy—whether through advocacy, resources, or connections—please contact @ericmonteoffical. His contributions to our culture deserve lasting recognition, and we are committed to ensuring his place in history.

To continue honoring his contributions, fans are encouraged to watch his movies every March 17th in tribute to his storytelling genius.

Known as the Godfather of Black Sitcoms, Eric Monte’s influence is undeniable. His legacy is not just in the shows he created but in the generations of writers, filmmakers, and creatives he inspired.

Here’s to Eric Monte—a true pioneer, a storyteller, and a legend.

By: Keidra Ponder