Organizers are gearing up for the 54th Annual African American Day Parade set for Sunday, Sept. 17 in Harlem. Earlier than you head to the festivities, listed here are some issues it’s essential know.
1. That is the primary African American Day Parade because the passing of parade founder Abe Snyder.
This yr’s African American Day Parade takes on particular which means. It’s the first parade because the passing of founder Abraham L. Snyder, who died in February at age 87. The African American Day Parade was first held in 1969 and was additionally began by Livingston Wingate and Conrad Peters together with 11 different neighborhood organizers. Founding organizers needed “the neighborhood to return collectively and have a good time Black American heritage, skills and accomplishments, whereas additionally honoring our ancestors.”
2. Make sure you catch the Pre-Parade Present.
Earlier than the parade begins there shall be a Pre-Parade Present from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in entrance of the reviewing stand at West a hundred and twenty fifth Avenue and Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Boulevard. The present will function performances by Marima Diop from Broadway’s “The Lion King”, Walter Russell III from Broadway’s “MJ the Musical,” singer/songwriter and rapper Javier Gooden, R&B singer Julia Robertson, the Uptown Dance Academy and others.
3. Tradition takes the highlight for this yr’s theme.
The theme for this yr’s parade is “Celebrating African American Tradition” honoring people and organizations which have made key cultural contributions to the African American neighborhood.
4. The grand marshals have made main contributions to African-American tradition.
A number of cultural icons are serving as this yr’s grand marshals. Amongst them are TV, radio host, writer and actress Bevy Smith, musician and entrepreneur Ashley Kieko, Schomburg Heart Director Pleasure Bivins and Founder and CEO of Ruff Ryders, Inc. Joaquin Dean.
5. The parade will host the primary “Get Concerned Group Literacy, Well being & Celebration of Tradition.”
This yr the African American Day Parade is internet hosting the primary “Get Concerned Group Literacy, Well being & Celebration of Tradition” from 11 a.m. to six p.m. on the Harlem State Workplace Constructing Plaza. The occasion will function video games, giveaways, a well being panel, a tribute to hip-hop and a dance battle.
in Harlem. Credit score: Benny Polatseck/Mayoral Pictures Workplace photograph
6. Make sure you wave on the politicians if you see them.
A number of politicians shall be marching within the parade. Count on to see Gov. Kathy Hochul, Mayor Eric Adams, Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, State Legal professional Normal Letitia James together with a number of metropolis and state politicians.
7. Make sure you get there early.
The parade kicks off at 1p.m. and begins at 111th Avenue and Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Boulevard and heads as much as 137th Avenue. It’s greatest to safe your spot early earlier than the parade begins so you may see.
8. You’ll see your loved ones, buddies and neighbors IN the parade.
A number of neighborhood and nationwide organizations together with church buildings, labor unions, schools, sororities and fraternities are taking part within the parade. So, in the event you see somebody you already know strolling the route, give them a shout!
9. The climate is meant to be good.
Sunday’s forecast is looking for largely sunny skies with a excessive close to 80. Make sure you convey water and put on mild clothes.
10. Have enjoyable!
The African-American Day Parade is a day the place the neighborhood can come collectively for celebration and pleasure for our tradition. Deliver your loved ones, see previous buddies and let’s make this the most effective parade ever!
