juneteenth yacht party chicago

Black Yacht Weekend

A floating party on the water for black travel enthusiasts everywhere. This event is all about culture, fun, and creating new experiences. Rally the crew and meet us in the water!

A #SummertimeChi Black Yacht Experience

The biggest weekend of the summer.

Welcome aboard Black Yacht Weekend, a floating party created for black boaters to party on Lake Michigan each year. Boaters connect and party on the water while sitting against the stunning backdrop of Chicago’s iconic skyline. Since launching, Black Yacht Weekend has quickly become a highlight of the city’s summer calendar, drawing black boaters to the vibrant vibes of the water each year.

Enjoy a full weekend of parties, cruising on the water, and chilling in the Playpen. Grab your crew, find a boat and meet us in the water.

Event Dates:

Location: chicago.

NEW POP UP DATE:

September 1st, 2024

12 pm – 5 pm

An Unforgettable Experience

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Celebrate Juneteenth With a Private Yacht Charter in Chicago

Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, is a celebration of the end of slavery in the United States. On June 19, 1865, Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, bringing news that the Civil War had ended and that all enslaved people were now free. Today, we celebrate this significant moment in American history with joyous gatherings, delicious food, and festive traditions.

If you’re looking for a unique and memorable way to celebrate Juneteenth in Chicago, consider booking a private yacht charter with Anita Dee Yacht Charters. Our luxurious yachts offer the perfect setting for a jubilant Juneteenth celebration with family, friends, or colleagues.

A Scenic Backdrop for Your Juneteenth Celebration

Imagine commemorating this historic day while cruising along the beautiful Chicago River or out on the sparkling waters of Lake Michigan. Anita Dee Yacht Charters‘s private yacht charters provide a stunning backdrop for your Juneteenth festivities.

Take in the iconic Chicago skyline as you sail through the heart of the city on the river. Marvel at the architectural wonders lining the waterway, such as the historic Wrigley Building and the modern Aqua Tower. Pass beneath the city’s famous movable bridges and watch as they rise to allow your yacht to pass.

You could also opt for a Lake Michigan cruise and enjoy unparalleled views of the city’s skyline from the water. Watch the sun sparkle off the waves and feel the refreshing lake breeze on your face. If your Juneteenth celebration coincides with a Saturday night, you might even catch a glimpse of the Navy Pier fireworks display.

No matter your route, a private yacht charter with Anita Dee Yacht Charters offers an unforgettable setting for your Juneteenth celebration.

Amenities for a Festive Juneteenth Gathering

Anita Dee Yacht Charters‘s yachts are more than just a pretty backdrop – they’re also equipped with all the amenities you need for a fantastic Juneteenth party. Our vessels have ample space for dining, dancing, and socializing, ensuring guests have a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

The Anita Dee II, our largest yacht, boasts an expansive upper deck with a full-service bar, perfect for sipping cocktails and enjoying panoramic city views. The lower deck features a spacious dining room with seating for up to 130 guests, ideal for a Juneteenth feast. This yacht features a beautiful piano lounge with a baby grand piano, where you can enjoy live music and cocktails. And don’t forget the dance floor – it’s the perfect spot to kick up your heels and celebrate freedom.

If you’re planning a more intimate Juneteenth gathering, the Anita Dee I offers a charming setting for smaller groups. The outdoor deck provides a lovely spot for socializing and taking in the city sights.

Both of our yachts come equipped with state-of-the-art sound systems, allowing you to set the mood with your favorite Juneteenth-inspired playlist. From traditional African drums to contemporary R&B and soul, you can customize the soundtrack to your celebration.

Catering Options for Your Juneteenth Feast

No Juneteenth celebration is complete without delicious food, and Anita Dee Yacht Charters makes it easy to enjoy a mouthwatering feast onboard. We work with some of Chicago’s top caterers to provide a wide range of dining options for your event.

Treat your guests to traditional Juneteenth dishes like succulent barbecue and hearty soul food. Or, opt for an upscale menu with gourmet appetizers, entrees, and desserts. Our catering partners can accommodate various dietary preferences and restrictions, ensuring every guest enjoys a satisfying meal.

Remember the drinks! Our yachts feature full-service bars with premium spirits, wines, and beers. Sip on a classic cocktail, enjoy refreshing red drinks, or savor a glass of champagne as you toast to freedom and celebrate the resilience of the African American community.

Plan Your Juneteenth Yacht Charter Today

This Juneteenth, honor the historic event that marked the end of slavery in the United States with a joyful celebration aboard a private yacht charter. Anita Dee Yacht Charters offers the perfect venue for your Juneteenth gathering, with luxurious amenities, stunning city views, and flexible catering options.

Our experienced event planners will work with you to customize every detail of your Juneteenth yacht charter, from the decor to the menu to the entertainment. We’ll handle all the logistics so you can focus on celebrating this significant day with your loved ones.

Don’t wait – book your Juneteenth yacht charter with Anita Dee Yacht Charters today. Contact us at (312) 379-3191 to start planning your unforgettable celebration on the water. Let’s make this Juneteenth one to remember!

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Juneteenth Celebration (3 Level Luxury Yacht) Chicago

Sat Jun 15 2024 at 06:45 pm to 11:00 pm

Anita Dee Yacht Charters | Chicago, IL

Please contact them directly at https://www.eventbrite.com/contact-us/.

Sorry – no refunds or price adjustments.

The Eventbrite system does not allow us to restrict people who are underage from buying tickets. If you are not 30+ and purchase a ticket, you will not be allowed on board. Cruise length will vary based upon multiple factors, including, but not limited to: boarding time, lock operations, boat traffic, weather, special events such as fireworks, emergency situations, etc.

The music's volume level will be set to an acceptable level intended to please all guests and may be regulated/limited by safety regulations set forth by the captain. For further Terms and Conditions of this event and ticket purchase please see “Ticket Purchase and Event Terms and Conditions” in checkout before purchasing these tickets; which shall also be binding and shall be incorporated by reference as though fully stated herein.

Where is it happening?

USD 45.00 to USD 500.00

Host or Publisher Skyline Yacht Cruises

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See the top 10 Juneteenth activities in Chicago

• By Eddy "Precise" Lamarre
• Jun 09, 2024

Juneteenth, a vital celebration of African American freedom and resilience, marks the official end of slavery in the United States. This historic day commemorates June 19, 1865, when Union soldiers brought news of freedom to enslaved Black people in Galveston, Texas—two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation. In Chicago, the spirit of Juneteenth thrives through vibrant festivals, cultural events, and communal gatherings that honor Black history, culture, and achievements.

Top 10 Juneteenth Events in Chicago:

1. juneteenth celebrating freedom.

Date: June 19 Venue: DuSable Black History Museum Experience live music, local vendors, food trucks, and engaging children’s activities. Explore significant exhibits like “Freedom: Origin and Journey”, which traces the African American struggle for freedom and equality.

2. Sip & Soul Festival

Date: June 22 Venue: Various Black-owned venues This inaugural multi-venue festival offers jazz, R&B, and gospel music, along with food vendors and local artist exhibits. . Enjoy a trolley ride connecting various Black-owned venues across the city.

3. The Emancipation Ball 2024

Date: June 18 Venue: Rockwell on the River Hosted by Moor’s Brewing Company, this formal soiree celebrates community and culture with bites from Black-owned restaurants, an open bar featuring Black-owned wine and spirits, and live entertainment.

4. Juneteenth Celebration at MLK Skating and Bowling

Date: June 19 Venue: MLK Skating and Bowling Center Enjoy an all-ages evening of skating and bowling to music reflecting Black history and culture, along with face painting, games, a bounce house, and delicious food.

5. Juneteenth Celebration Yacht Cruise

Date: June 15 Venue: Skyline Yacht Cruises Celebrate Juneteenth aboard a yacht with stunning views of Chicago’s skyline. Dress in all-black for this three-hour cruise featuring live DJs, two indoor dance floors, an outdoor sky deck, and a cash bar.

6. Juneteenth Village Fest

Date: June 15 Venue: Douglass Park This free, family-focused event includes carnival rides, games, and performances by Grammy award-winning actor/rapper Common, hip-hop duo Dead Prez, Domani Harris and Nola Ade

7. Black Culture Week

Date: June 15-24 Venue: Various locations Celebrate Black culture with a 10-day lineup of events including a poetry slam, yoga, fireworks, meditation, and wellness activities.

8. Juneteenth Jubilee & Resource Fair

Date: June 15 Venue: Truman College Participate in this fourth annual celebration featuring community services, performances at the Culture Cafe Stage, food, games, free barber services, and a DJ.

9. They Not Like Us: Art, Music and Community, A Celebration of Juneteenth

Date: June 15 & 19 Venue: Pose Cultural Art Gallery Celebrate Juneteenth with inspiring artwork, live music, and an open mic for poets , singers, and dancers at this Black woman-owned gallery in West Town.

10. Homewood-Flossmoor Juneteenth Festival

Date: June 15 & 19 Venue: Homewood-Flossmoor This event focuses on Black culture, pride, and power with food, live music, dance, and more. It concludes with a Juneteenth parade on June 19.

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Juneteenth Charity Yacht Event

21 and older to attend

Boarding Time: 6pm

Departure Time: 7pm-11pm

Early arrival strongly suggested

What is the dress code? There is a semi-casual dress code. No facial tattoos or gang representation

Can I bring my own food/drink on the boat? Absolutely no outside food or beverage may be brought on the boat.

What do I need to bring to get on the boat? Your printed or emailed ticket and a valid ID. All guests must Be 21+.

All items are non-refundable, all sales are final.

All items are non-refundable under any circumstances.

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Black folks are taking over Lake Michigan with two big boating events in Chicago this summer

There’s no time like summertime Chi! With sunny blue skies, the greatest downtown in the world and a vast body of water to enjoy, Chicago gives some of the best summertime vibes you can find. That’s why Black people from all over the world are traveling to Chicago this summer for two big boating events. 

Taking over Lake Michigan with some of the largest Black boater meetups in the country, the 4th annual Chicago Black Yacht Weekend is happening on June 14-16, and separately Blvck Scene is throwing their 9th annual Blvck Scene Weekend on July 19-21.

Both weekends will consist of a fun-loving, sunbathing and luxury itinerary that include partying in the Playpen on Lake Michigan with the backdrop of the city’s skyline. Each event will give Black Chicagoans, as well as tourists, a chance to experience the city in a way most never have. 

The TRiiBE spoke with the founders of both weekends. In a phone conversation on May 13, Black Yacht Weekend co-founder Shaniqua Davis — who goes by Shaniqua D. — talked about how combining Black Yacht Weekend with Juneteenth has grown the lake gathering.

“I wanted to do it [that] weekend, kind of because it’s leading into Juneteenth, as a way to just take a moment to recognize it, celebrate it, and potentially, if all goes well, we’ll make it [into] an annual thing where this is a Juneteenth celebration,” she said. 

For Black Yacht Weekend, there will be a happy-hour party on Friday, June 14, and a day party with an after party on Sunday, June 16. The time and locations of these events will be announced later. 

The actual boat party on Lake Michigan will take place on Saturday, June 15. Tickets for Black Yacht Weekend can be found on their website.  

“We just want to create this space where everybody’s invited, and everybody’s included, to have a day of fun,” Davis said.

For Blvck Scene Weekend, the boat party on Lake Michigan will be the finale, taking place on Sunday, July 21 at 2:00 p.m. The rest of the weekend will consist of a happy-hour party on Friday, July 19 at 6:00 p.m., and a day party on Saturday, July 20 at 2:00 p.m. Tickets for Blvck Scene Weekend can be found on their website , as well as charters for the weekend. 

For the founders of Blvck Scene, the event started out as a “half birthday” celebration for a friend. Over the course of the last nine years, the friendly gathering has grown into a cultural phenomenon, becoming one of the largest black boater meetups in the country. 

In a phone interview with The TRiiBE on May 15, Blvck Scene founder Aubrey Gibson said this year will be the biggest Chicago has seen in boater attendance.

“Last year, we had 200 boats out there, so we’re super excited about the size,” he said. “Every year, we’ve gotten bigger, and I think we’re projecting around 240 this year so far.”

When asked about what makes the event so appealing, Gibson answered, “how often are Black folks on boats, right? This is not something that people do regularly,” he said. 

Gibson also believes the event’s reach has attracted more visitors, and gives tourists a chance to experience Chicago in a unique way. 

“I would easily argue maybe 75% to 80% of people that participate are from out of town,” he said. “To see that there’s something happening like this, in a city like Chicago, and you always kind of hear about summertime Chi, it’s just an opportunity for them to do it,” Gibson explained.

In order to participate in the boat parties on the lake, attendees have to either ask to join someone’s boat or have their own boat. For those who don’t own a yacht, you must rent a boat and a captain to operate it. While pricing for charters vary, most vessels for these events average around 600$ an hour. Average price to book a captain ranges from 100$ to 300$ an hour. Blvck Scene conveniently has booking for charters and captains on their web page. These yachts usually carry around 12 to 13 people. 

Blvck Scene has a GroupMe , where attendees can connect and meet. They also are hosting happy hours around the country in cities like Washington D.C., Atlanta and Charlotte, so travelers coming to Chicago can meet prior to the event. 

Black Yacht Weekend has started a Facebook page so folks can communicate and find boatmates to split costs for the festivities.

• Black Yacht Weekend
• Blvck Scene
• summertime chi

A paradegoer hoists a red, black and green African American flag during the 2022 West Garfield Park Juneteenth Parade on Central Park Avenue.

Pat Nabong/Sun-Times file

Where to commemorate Juneteenth in Chicago: ‘A celebration of freedom’

The june 19 federal and state holiday honors the day in 1865 when the last enslaved african americans learned they had been freed — two years after the emancipation proclamation..

Live performances by musicians like Chicago’s own Common, educational exhibits, dancing and more are just a few ways to celebrate Juneteenth across the city in the coming days.

The holiday is celebrated June 19, honoring the day in 1865 when the last enslaved African Americans learned they had been freed — two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. Juneteenth was made a state and federal holiday in 2021 .

“It’s really a celebration of freedom,” Perri Irmer, president and chief executive of the DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center, told the Sun-Times.

“We want to show how far we’ve come, but also recognize and acknowledge that we have a long way to go. It’s a family-oriented event, so we will have all sorts of activities — musical performances, storytelling, a blues band, a soul band,” Irmer said of the museum’s Juneteenth celebration on Wednesday, its largest outdoor event of the year that is expected to draw nearly 10,000 people.

Even a NASCAR pit crew will stop by the event — weeks before the race returns to the streets of the Loop.

“We also want the kids to be aware that there are areas of study and work and careers that they might not know about … even sports that we have not been historically allowed in or have been inaccessible to Black people, and those things are changing, so we also want to celebrate change,” Irmer said.

Nakisha Hobbs, who helps organize the Juneteenth Village Fest at Douglass Park with It Takes a Village Family of Schools, said their celebration Saturday, featuring Chicago-born rapper Common, as well as “tons of activities for little kids,” should also attract nearly 10,000 people.

“One of the major reasons we’re excited to put this event on is it’s a demonstration of love for each other and love for our community, and a demonstration of what safety and peace and joy looks like in the African American community,” Hobbs said.

The 1865 Fest, a three-day festival kicking off Friday at Garfield Park, also invites people from all over the city to “enjoy culture and just have fun and celebrate emancipation,” festival founder Carol Johnson said.

“We want people to come out because one of the things we’re trying to do is re-image Garfield Park,” Johnson said. “Garfield Park has in the past had negative imaging and negative things said about it, but we want people to know that there’s positive things going on in the community collectively with the people. It’s a safe and peaceful festival.”

Here are some ways to celebrate Juneteenth in Chicago:

The Garfield Park 1865 Coalition hosts 3-day 1865 Fest

Friday’s flag-raising ceremony honoring Black veterans is by invitation only, but the next two days are free and open to the public. Saturday’s youth day will feature a dance battle and musical performances. Sunday will also celebrate Father’s Day with a “Grillin and Chillin” cook-off.

• When: 3–6 p.m. Friday; noon-8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday,
• Where: Friday, Garfield Park Gold Dome Field House, 100 N. Central Park Ave.; Saturday and Sunday, Garfield Park Music Court Circle.
• More information: 1865festchicago.com .

Juneteenth Village Fest

It Takes a Village Family of Schools’ free festival will be headlined by Common and hip-hop artists Domani Harris and Dead Prez. African American food vendors, a bounce house, Ferris wheel, a magic show and Jesse White Tumblers are among the other highlights.

• When: Noon–8 p.m. Saturday
• Where: Douglass Park, 1401 S. Sacramento Dr.
• More information: itavschools.org .

Bronzeville’s annual Juneteenth celebration

The free celebration will highlight youth and adult artists, and local small businesses “with a lot of fun and educational activities.”

• When: 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Saturday
• Where: Absolutely Anything Essential, 3521 S. King Drive
• More information: absolutelyanythingessential.com/chicagoevents .

Bronzeville Children’s Museum Juneteenth celebration

The event, which will include interactive and fun activities for kids, is free for members and $5 for non-members.

• When: 1-3 p.m. Saturday
• Where: Bronzeville Children’s Museum, 9301 S. Stony Island Ave.
• More information: bronzevillechildrensmuseum.com .

10th Annual Chicago Juneteenth Parade

• When: 11 a.m. Saturday
• Where: West Madison Street and South Sacramento Avenue
• More information: chijuneteenthparade.org .

Juneteenth Family Festival of Beverly/Morgan Park

The free festival aims to honor ancestors, celebrate the African and African-American cultures, unite the community and connect Chicagoans with resources and services.

• When: Noon–7 p.m. Saturday
• Where: West 110th Street and South Longwood Drive
• More information: juneteenthfamilyfestival.com .

Accessible Juneteenth celebration

The free event, hosted by Chicagoland Disabled People of Color Coalition, UIC Disability Cultural Center and the Institute on Disability and Human Development, commemorates Black people with disabilities “who have helped create a more free world.” The celebration will also feature live music, food and giveaways.

• When: 4–7:30 p.m. Tuesday
• Where: The Quad at University of Illinois at Chicago, 803 S. Morgan St.
• More information: go.uic.edu/AccessibleJuneteenth .

The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center’s Juneteenth celebration

The free event will include educational programming, theater performances, family-friendly discussions, a health care pavilion and more.

• When: 10 a.m.–8:30 p.m. Wednesday
• Where: The DuSable Museum, 740 E. 56th Place.
• More information: dusablemuseum.org .

ONE Northside Juneteenth Celebration

ONE Northside and Partnering for Peace host a free celebration with food, games and music.

• When: 1-7 p.m. Wednesday
• Where: Pottawattomie Park, 7340 N. Rogers Ave.
• More information: onenorthside.org/events .

Refine Collective presents 4th annual Juneteenth Freedom Market

A free, all-ages celebration highlighted by a market of more than 50 local Black-owned businesses.

• When: 4-10 p.m. Wednesday
• Where: The Salt Shed Fairgrounds, 1357 N. Elston Ave.
• More information: saltshedchicago.com .

Juneteenth Illinois hosts “Food is Medicine” health panel

• When: 8–10 a.m. June 22
• Where: Malcolm X College, 1900 W. Jackson Blvd.
• More information: juneteenthillinois.com .

Juneteenth Illinois hosts blood drive

• When: 9 a.m.–3 p.m. June 22

Juneteenth Illinois hosts “Pathways to Freedom” justice panel

• When: 10–11 a.m. June 22

Juneteenth Illinois hosts “Secure the Bag” wealth panel

• When: 11 a.m.–Noon June 22

Juneteenth Illinois hosts BINGO game

• When: Noon–1:30 p.m. June 22

Juneteenth Illinois hosts educational panel

• When: 1–2 p.m. June 22

Restaurants, Food and Drink | 19 Juneteenth events around Chicago, from…

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Things To Do

Restaurants, food and drink, restaurants, food and drink | 19 juneteenth events around chicago, from festivals and parades to fundraisers and parties.

The Chicago area has embraced the occasion, and you’ll find Juneteenth events throughout the city and suburbs ranging from parades and festivals to dance parties and pop-up markets where you can shop Black-owned businesses.

With Juneteenth falling on a Sunday and the federal holiday observed Monday, these 19 events are spread throughout the long weekend to give you plenty of opportunities to celebrate freedom and work toward furthering racial justice.

Arts and Culture

Marvel Studios’ “Black Panther” in Concert: The Chicago Philharmonic performs Ludwig Göransson’s Oscar- and Grammy-winning score during a screening of the film along with Senegalese tama drummer Massamba Diop, who co-created much of the music. Come from 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. for a costume contest and best-dressed contest awarding tickets to Fan Expo Chicago and a fall Chicago Philharmonic concert. 7:30 p.m. Saturday at Chicago Theatre, 226 S. Wabash Ave.; tickets $80-$130 at 312-957-0000 and chicagophilharmonic.org/marvel-studios-black-panther-in-concert

Celebrate Juneteenth at the Field: The museum offers free admission to Illinois residents and hosts a presentation from author Michelle Duster, the great-granddaughter of Ida B. Wells, on the controversy over the representation of African Americans at the 1893 World’s Fair and the social, economic and political realities African Americans faced after the Civil War. You can also meet Field Museum scientists and see specimens from the collection. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Field Museum, 1400 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive; free, more information at 312-922-9410 and fieldmuseum.org

Juneteenth: The Celebration: The annual outdoor Juneteenth celebration features dance performances from M.A.D.D. Rhythms, Chicago Tap Theatre and other groups, plus a DJ, free food, workshops, raffles, art and kids’ activities. 1 p.m. Sunday at Harold Washington Cultural Center, 4701 S. Martin Luther King Drive; free, more information at 773-604-1899 and maddrhythms.com

Juneteenth Festival: The Far South Community Development Corporation hosts a party on the site of the planned mixed-use development project featuring live music, food from local Black-owned businesses including Jamaican Gates and Brown Sugar Bakery, a kids play area, gift card giveaways and a resource vendor fair. Noon to 5 p.m. Saturday at Morgan Park Commons, 11420 S. Halsted St.; admission is free, register at eventbrite.com

Juneteenth Food Fest: The second annual celebration of African and African American cuisine features food from Blazzin B’s Chicken, Chicago Style Vegan, Crumb Crusher Cupcakes and other vendors plus dance performances and live music. Noon to 7 p.m. Saturday at Proksa Park, 3001 Wisconsin Ave., Berwyn; admission is free, more information at berwynjuneteenth.com

Juneteenth Festival of Freedom: The village of Broadview hosts a three-day celebration featuring a community fish fry Friday followed by a festival Saturday and Sunday with vendors, food, performances by Theo Huff and Soul 2 The Bone, and a fireworks show. 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and noon to 8:30 p.m. Sunday at Schroeder Park, 2600 S. 13th Ave., Broadview; more information at broadview-il.gov/juneteenth-festival

Festival on the Square: Congo Square Theatre hosts a festival featuring a staged reading of August Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning show “How I Learned What I Learned,” which chronicles his experiences with racism as a Black artist in Pittsburgh. Ayodele Drum & Dance and blues musician Melody Angel perform and attendees can shop Black vendors including Joys Treasures Jewelry and Dr. Herbal’s Organic & Vegan Hair Care. 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday at Zhou B Art Center, 1029 W. 35th St.; admission is free, more information at congosquaretheatre.org

Fundraisers

Ricky Byrdsong Memorial Race Against Hate: The YWCA Evanston/North Shore’s 23rd annual race features timed 5K and 10K runs, a 5K walk, a mile run for kids, and on-field refreshments. A former Northwestern basketball coach, Ricky Byrdsong was slain in 1999 by a white supremacist and proceeds from the race benefit the YWCA’s racial justice and violence prevention efforts. 7:30 to 11 a.m. Sunday at Floyd Long Field at Northwestern University, 2436 Sheridan Road, Evanston; registration is $47, more information at 847-864-8445 and ywca-ens.org

Vision Benefit: Congo Square Theatre celebrates its 20th anniversary with a watch party for its sketch comedy series “Hit ’em on the Blackside” followed by a crew and cast talkback, a dance performance by Hawkins House of Horton, live painting from Jeffery Beckham Jr., and a dance party hosted by DJ Retro. 6 p.m. Sunday at Zhou B Art Center, 1029 W. 35th St.; tickets $250 at 773-296-1108 and congosquaretheatre.org/visionbenefit

Juneteenth Parade and Commemoration: Evanston’s annual parade ends at Ingraham Park with music, dance and spoken word performances, hands-on activities, arts and crafts, and food vendors. Noon to 6 p.m. Saturday at the Robert Crown Community Center, 1801 Main St., Evanston; more information at cityofevanston.org

West Villages Juneteenth Parade: The communities of Forest Park, Maywood, Oak Park and River Forest come together for an inaugural 1.5-mile parade concluding at Proviso East High School in Maywood with food vendors and entertainment. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at Brown Avenue and Randolph Street, Forest Park; admission is free, more information at 708-450-6366 and vrf.us

Juneteenth Parade and Community Picnic: Bring a lawn chair, food and a blanket and watch the parade proceed north on Ridgeland Avenue to August Street before heading to the gathering at Taylor Park. 11 a.m. Sunday at Longfellow Park, 610 S. Ridgeland Ave., Oak Park; admission is free, more information at 708-358-5407 and oak-park.us

Moneygun’s Juneteenth Celebration: The West Loop bar hosts a bash featuring a set from DJ Police State. $1 from every specialty cocktail purchased benefits Brave Space Alliance, a Black and trans-led LGBTQ center serving the city’s South and West sides. Doors open at 5 p.m. Sunday at Moneygun, 660 W. Lake St.; no cover, more information at 312-600-0600 and moneygunchicago.com

The Emancipation Ball: Moor’s Brewing Co. and Disb?lef Tequila host a black-tie party on the 99th floor of the Willis Tower featuring sets from DJs Sean Mac and Bamn, appetizers, an open bar, a sunset fireworks display, and an exhibition of Black art. 7-11 p.m. Saturday at the Willis Tower, 233 S. Wacker Drive; tickets $150 at eventbrite.com

All Together Now: An Original Juneteenth Party: Dance to music from Vic Lloyd, Jus One, Mile High and Simmy. 4 to 9 p.m. Saturday at The Promontory, 5311 S. Lake Park Avenue West; tickets $20 at eventbrite.com

Momentum Coffee’s Juneteenth Pop-Up Shop: The Black-owned coffee shop hosts its second annual Juneteenth vendor pop-up, welcoming small businesses and honoring the holiday with special menu items priced at $6.19. 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday at Momentum Coffee and Coworking, 2119 S. State St., 312-248-2502, momentumcoffee.org

Juneteenth Freedom Market: Shop more than 50 local Black-owned businesses including Boxed Expressions, Red Elephant Candle Company and Zen Soul Apothecary. You can also browse the museum’s galleries and catch sets from DJs Slot-A and Cut-Cuz. Baileys Colada provides drink samples and you can get more from a cash bar. A portion of the proceeds benefit The Gray Matter Experience. 5 to 9 p.m. Friday at the Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave.; tickets $25 at ticketfalcon.com

Stash Market’s Juneteenth Pop-Up Market: Stash Market hosts a free pop-up on Time Out Market Chicago’s second floor featuring fashion, jewelry and art from Black-owned businesses including Sage House Apothecary, Soma Gems and Mauzi. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at Time Out Market Chicago, 916 W. Fulton Market, 312-637-3888, timeoutmarket.com/chicago

Thank You Chicago Juneteenth Market: An indoor and outdoor pop-up market celebrating Black businesses features vendors selling beauty products, fashion and food. 2 to 7 p.m. Sunday at The Promontory, 5311 S. Lake Park Avenue West; admission is free, register at eventbrite.com

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The Ultimate Guide To Juneteenth In Chicago: 50+ Barbecues, Parades And Other Ways To Celebrate This Year

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CHICAGO — Organizers throughout the city are kicking off Juneteenth celebrations this week, marking the occasion with brunches, pop-up markets, parades and more. 

Juneteenth — a mashup of the words “June” and “19th” — marks the day in 1865 when federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, to free enslaved people, more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation.

Juneteenth was declared a federal and state holiday in 2021. Block Club rounded up more than 50 Juneteenth events. Have an event we should add? Email [email protected] .

Juneteenth at Lawrence Hall Free event with a barbecue, music, jumprope, cornhole and painting. Painting sessions start at 3 and 4 p.m. Lawrence Hall, 1818 E. 71st St. 2:30-4:30 p.m. Tuesday

4th Annual Juneteenth Celebration of Peace  Head to the Roseland church for food, a bouncy house, spoken word performances, live music, a DJ, Princess Pamper truck, prayer tents, face painting, toy giveaways, raffles and contests, praise dance performances, performances by the Jesse White Tumblers and a fireworks show. Allen Metropolitan CME Church, 10946 S. Lowe Ave. Noon-9 p.m. Friday Link

Something I Can Feel and Coffee Hip Hop and Mental Health In Conversation Coffee Hip Hop and Mental Health founder Christopher LeMark will lead the discussion Friday about Black creativity. Then Something I Can Feel will host brunch, live poetry and an open gallery Sunday. Tickets for the brunch are $15-$25. Salonlb, 1010 W. 35th St., Suite 500 6-9 p.m. Friday and 12:30-6 p.m. Sunday. Link Link

Juneteenth Family Art and Wellness Celebration This Juneteenth event features live painting, a banned and challenged book giveaway, art activities for children and young adults, live music, poetry and music exploration for children and families. Performers include Rashada Dawan and The Soul Collective, Boukhepra, Awthentik, Ayinde Cartman, the Azania Drum Ensemble and Moya Cultural Arts. 11840 S. Marshfield Drive 5:30-7:30 Friday

The Game Changers Presents: Free-Ish Friday Game Night Family-friendly game night for those 12 and older hosted by WGCI’s Kyle Santillian with soul food, sweet tea, lemonade and whiskey. Those interested can register online .  The Promontory, 5311 S. Lake Park Ave. West 6-9 p.m. Friday

Juneteenth Freedom Day Celebration XS Tennis is hosting a Juneteenth Celebration in Hyde Park. XS Tennis and Education Foundation, 5336 S. State St.  10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday

Jeffery Manor Juneteenth 2022 Bradley Park organizers will have a basketball tournament, dance contest, information sharing and item swap opportunity for people to bring items to give away and exchange. Bradley Park, 9729 S. Yates Blvd. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday

Far South Community Development Corporation Juneteenth Bringing Communities Back Festival Annual Juneteenth festival with giveaways, free food, a kids’ fun zone, vendors, a trolley tour, live music and family activities. Those interested in attending must register online .  Old Jewel’s parking lot, 11420 S. Halsted St. Noon-5 p.m. Saturday

Juneteenth Community Picnic Live entertainment, Black-owned businesses to shop from, a children’s area, a celebration of African cultures, and Black art, music and film. Tickets available online . 91st Street and Prospect Square 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday

3rd Annual Beverly/Morgan Park Juneteenth Family Festival 2022 This annual event will have storytelling, African djembe drumming lessons, Thrive Cardio dancing, African dancing, food, live music, entertainment and vendors. 110th Place and Longwood Drive 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday

Family Reunion BBQ Picnic Affinity Community Services will host an afternoon with food, music and live performances to celebrate Pride and Juneteenth. Those interested can register online . Dan Ryan Woods, 83rd Street and Western Ave. 1-4 p.m. Saturday

Juneteenth Celebration Pop-Up Shop Event Shop from pop-up vendors while having the chance to win prizes. There will be swag bags for the first 50 guests and hourly raffles. 1804 W. 103rd St. 1-5 p.m. Saturday

Black-A-Palooza: Juneteenth Pop-Up Shop and Showcase Shop from local Black artists. All ages are welcome.  5401 S. Wentworth Ave. 1-6 p.m. Saturday

“1800 vs 2020” — Final Juneteenth Performance Chicago native Richard Gallion’s stage play exploring the physical and mental shackles that bond us ends its successful three-year run with two final performances this weekend. Tickets are available here. APC Theater, 11401 S. Vincennes Ave. Saturday, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Central South Shore Area Council Juneteenth Family Funday The Central South Shore Area Council’s event offers food, drinks, games, crafts, vendors and family activities.  South Shore Hospital parking lot, 79th Street and Crandon Avenue 4-7 p.m. Saturday

St. Sabina Juneteenth Celebration African drummers, African dancers and the bucket boys will perform at the celebration with guest speaker Marc Lamont Hill. St. Sabina will also honor Abraham Bolden, the first Black Secret Service Agent at the White House. St. Sabina Church, 79th and Throop 10 a.m. Sunday

DuSable Museum’s Juneteenth BBQ Bring your own grills and enjoy food, vendors, live performances, a kids’ corner, bouncy house, quilting exhibition and workshop, table games and horseback riding.  DuSable Museum of African American History, 740 E. 56th Place 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday

DuSable and SocialWorks Presents The Juneteenth BBQ and Block Party Presented by Chance the Rapper, the event will have children’s activities, horses, free museum admission, vendors, food trucks, artists, workshops, booths and presentations. DuSable Museum of African American History, 740 E. 56th Place 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday

Juneteenth Extravaganza on Ellis A Polished Work Nail Lounge is hosting a free block party with food, games, music, vendors and more at this family-friendly event.  1000 E. 76th St.  11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday

Mr. Dad’s Father’s Club’s Father’s March Celebration: Juneteenth Edition 2022 Food, games and music at this family-friendly event sponsored by My Block, My Hood, My City, the Park District and chef Michael Airhart.  Ogden Park Field House, 6500 S. Racine Ave. 12-4 p.m. Sunday

Juneteenth: A Day To Celebrate! Enjoy unlimited food, drinks, and soul music. Tickets are $15-$20. Salonlb, Suite 500, 1010 W. 35th St. 12:30-6 p.m. Sunday Link

3rd Annual Juneteenth Picnic This event will feature a 3-on-3 basketball tournament, bouncy house, face painting, free food, games, live performances, a Juneteenth history talk and a double dutch competition. Those interested in donating to help the organizers fund the event can contact them online .  Dunbar Park, 300 E. 31st St. 12:30-9 p.m. Sunday

Juneteenth: The Celebration and Father’s Day Recognition The Harold Washington Cultural Center, Dorothy Jeanius S.T.E.A.M. Camp and M.A.D.D. Rhythm Organization’s are partnering for their annual Juneteenth celebration . 4701 S. King Drive 1 p.m. Sunday Link

Festival On The Square Congo Square Theatre hosts a free, family-friendly show with music, dance and a market featuring Black-owned businesses. Performers include Ayodele Dance & Drum,Blues star Melody Angel, and members of the Congo Square Theatre Ensemble. Zhou B Art Center, 1029 W. 35 th  St. 1-4 p.m. Sunday Link

Liberated Living: A Juneteenth Healing Clinic & Liberation Landing Launch This Back of the Yards event will have free food, workshops and classes, a vendor fair and child care. It’s free and will focus on community building, healing and the arts. #BreathingRoom Space, 1434 W. 51st St., and Gardens & Farm, 5045 S. Laflin Ave. 1-6 p.m. Sunday

Thank You Juneteenth Market Free pop-up market at the Promontory highlighting Black-owned businesses selling everything from beauty products to fashion to food. The Promontory, 5311 S. Lake Park Ave. West 2 p.m. Sunday

Real Men Cook Father’s Day Event Men will cook and serve their favorite dishes to the community to raise money for Real Men Cook Charities. There will be tastings of barbecue, African foods, dishes from family recipes and vegan options; plus music, activities and a tribute to Juneteenth. Tickets available online . Adult tickets are $25, children 12 and younger are $10.  The Quarry (Real Men Cook Headquarters), 2423 E. 75th St 3-6 p.m. Sunday

Juneteenth Concert with The Maestro and The Bronzeville Diva Robert Irving Ill and Senabella Gill are leading a mix of jazz, world music, hip hop, classical and neo-soul gospel in this concert celebrating Black excellence and resilience through music.  Illinois Institute of Technology, 10 W. 35th St.  7-9 p.m. Sunday

Annual Juneteenth Community Recommitment Celebration and Youth Basketball Tournament Championship A parade and walk starting at the National A. Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum kicks off the event, heading to Gately Stadium for the festival and tournament.  National A. Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum, 10406 S. Maryland Ave. Gately Stadium Park, 10201 S. Cottage Grove Ave. 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday

2nd Annual Juneteenth Illinois Conference Juneteenth Illinois is hosting events and panels for its two-day event. A full list can be found online .  Malcolm X College, 1900 W. Jackson Blvd. 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Thursday and 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Friday Link

1865 Fest Juneteenth Celebration The West Central Association Chamber of Commerce is organizing this free three-day Juneteenth event with family activities, history, education, entertainment, a night light football game and more. Garfield Park Music Court Circle, 300 N. Central Park Ave. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday-Sunday Link  

Juneteenth 5K Walk/Run Organized by Peace Runners 773, the 5K Walk/Run will raise money for Garfield Park Gators Youth and Football. Register online . Donations are accepted via Zelle to [email protected] Garfield Park Football Field, 138 S. Hamlin Blvd. 8:30-11 a.m. Saturday Link

Juneteenth Village Festival It Takes A Village Family of Schools will celebrate the renaming of Anna & Frederick Douglass Park and the legacies of its namesakes. Enjoy a parade, DJ, free carnival rides, games, inflatables, vendor booths, a petting zoo, face painting, giveaways, rock climbing wall and more. Register online . Anna & Frederick Douglass Park, 1313 S. Sacramento Drive 12-6 p.m. Saturday Link

2022 Juneteenth West Fest A two-day event featuring live music. Free tickets can be found online .  Columbus Park, 500 S. Central Ave.   Noon-7 p.m. Saturday-Sunday

2nd Annual Juneteenth Celebration with UCAN Free Juneteenth and Father’s Day event with music, sports, storytelling, food, a water slide (bathing suits welcomed), a bouncy house, face painting, reptile petting zoo and more. This event is free. UCAN’s Drost Harding Campus, 3605 W. Fillmore St. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday Link

St. Joseph MB Church eighth annual Juneteenth Parade Cars can begin lining up at 10 a.m. for the parade, followed by a picnic at Garfield Park with free food and grill space. There’s a prize for the best decorated car. Register online .  St. Joseph MB Church, 2901 W. Monroe; Garfield Park, 300 N. Central Ave. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday

Live Band Karaoke: A Juneteenth Celebration of Culture (Cookout Edition) Free event with a live karaoke band. People can sing karaoke alone or as a group with friends. There is also a prize for best-dressed. Columbus Park, 500 S. Central Ave. Noon-3 p.m. Saturday

Trade Day and Juneteenth Celebration People ages 12-21 can participate in the Brown House Experience’s Trade Day and Juneteenth Celebration and get hands-on learning of trades taught by local businesses and entrepreneurs. Youths 5-11 can check out STEM, art and fitness stations. Douglass Park, 1401 S. Sacramento Drive Noon-3 p.m. Saturday Link

Light Up Lawndale’s Juneteenth/Father’s Day Celebration A “kickback-style” barbecue with free food and drinks, games, live music, hula hoop contests, double dutch contests, hopscotch, potato bag sack races, bike rides, litter-free Lawndale events and a mini car show and more. Register online .  3200 W. Douglas Boulevard, between Kedzie and Albany 4-9 p.m. Sunday Link

Second annual Juneteenth Jubilee and Resource Fair Enjoy free games, prizes, food, and live entertainment at Voice of the People’s 2nd Annual Juneteenth Jubilee and Resource Fair. DJ Papo Fizz MC will be performing sets with house music, classic R&B, soul and funk. The event is also presented by Uptown United and POAH Communities. Harry S. Truman College, 1145 W. Wilson Ave. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday

St. Benedict Parish Juneteenth Celebration Pathways Toward Peace Ministry is teaming up with the  Coonley Antiracism Group  for the free event with entertainment from the Jesse White Tumblers, games and storytelling, food, and a marketplace highlighting Black-owned businesses. Bring your own lawn chairs; all are welcome. St. Benedict Parish Courtyard, 3900 N. Leavitt St. 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.  Saturday

Juneteenth Weekend Market Day and Juneteenth Black History Is Our History Art Exhibition View local and international Black art and shop from Black artists. The event is free, but donations are accepted. Pose Cultural Art Gallery, 2136 W. Chicago Ave. 1-4 p.m. Saturday Link

Juneteenth Art Exhibition Celebration An all-ages art exhibit by Victoria Slone will honor the history and legacy of enslaved people in the United States and discuss freedom, democracy and human rights. Space is limited. Tickets are $5 . Sales will be donated to the Chicago Alliance Against Racist and Political Oppression. The Joy Room Chicago, 4837 W. Irving Park Road 6-9 p.m. Saturday Link

Juneteenth concert at the Old Town School of Folk Music The free performance will feature Michael Taylor, Djembe Ensemble, Alton Smith & Bill Brickey Soul Ensemble, Soul Avengers and other guests. RSVP  here Old Town School of Folk Music, 4545 N. Lincoln Ave. 7 p.m. Sunday

Juneteenth Celebration and Art Fundraiser Pose Cultural Art Gallery is hosting this event to help support operating expenses. People can view art from Black artists. Tickets are $65 and can be bought online .  Pose Cultural Art Gallery, 2136 W. Chicago Ave. 1-5 p.m. Sunday Link

Juneteenth Day Party This event from the Ultimate Kick Back Collective features food, drinks, music and vendors. DJ Cochise, DJ Khali Melon and Psylo Soundz are performing. Tickets are $10 online and $20 at the door.  The Wild Hare, 2610 N. Halsted St. 12 p.m. Sunday Link

Juneteenth Observance Park Community Church is hosting an event with conversations, speeches and music. More information can be found online .  Park Community Church, 1001 N. Crosby St.  10 a.m. Monday Link

Juneteenth 2022 Performances at the Vittum Theater  The Vittum Theater will host a performance series of the theater production, “1619: The Journey of a People, The Musical.” This production uses hip-hop, jazz, and blues to commemorate the struggle for survival and equality and celebrates the stories and journeys of America’s Africans. Tickets are $35-69 and can be bought online . Vittum Theater, 1012 N. Noble St.  7:30-9:30 p.m. Friday, 1-3 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Saturday, 4–6 p.m. Sunday Link

Downtown And South Loop

Refine Collective Presents second annual Juneteenth Freedom Market More than 50 local, Black-owned businesses, live entertainment from the 40-and-older Double Dutch Club, DJs and drinks. Event is 21 and up. A portion of the event’s proceeds benefits The Gray Matter Experience, a non-profit organization for high school youth. Tickets can be bought online .  The Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago, 220 E. Chicago Ave. 5-9 p.m. Friday Link

Juneteenth Black Business Market Chicago French Press , 103 Collection and Mister Suitable will host a curated Black business market. There will also be food and drinks from Black-owned brands, and lifestyle and beauty vendors. Music will be provided by DJ Young Lord Scotty. Chicago French Press Courtyard, 150 W. Roosevelt Road Noon-6 p.m. Saturday

Juneteenth Pop-Up Shop at Momentum Coffee Momentum Coffee is hosting its second annual Juneteenth Pop-Up Event, which will feature a variety of small businesses people can support. There will be $6.19 special menu items and deals to honor Juneteenth. 2119 S. State St. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday

Juneteenth Events and Free Day at the Field Museum The Field Museum is celebrating Juneteenth with events highlighting Ida B. Wells, George Washington Carver and the 1893 World’s Fair, which largely excluded African Americans.  The Field Museum, 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive 10 a.m. and 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday Link

Juneteenth Second Annual Reading Circle: Conversation with Author Clint Smith as Latest Voices for Justice Speaker Smith will discuss his book, “ How the Word Is Passed: A Reckoning with the History of Slavery Across America ,” with Candace Moore, the city’s chief equity officer, and Obari Cartman, president of the Chicago Association of Black Psychologists. WBEZ reporter Natalie Moore will moderate. Chicago Public Library YouTube channel and Facebook page.  In-person viewing parties at Legler, 115 S. Pulaski Road; Sulzer, 4455 N. Lincoln Ave. and Woodson 9525 S. Halsted St. 6 p.m. Thursday

We Are One SEC Worldwide Annual Juneteenth Celebration This event will feature special guests, lawyers from Mauritania, Africa, Maitre Mohameden Elid and Fatimata M’Baye. Sign up online .  11 a.m.-3 p.m. Friday Link

Fatherhood, Faith and Freedom This event will focus on generational wealth in the beauty and wellness trades. There will also be a reading of an excerpt from Marcus Garvey on entrepreneurship, a voter registration check and a Father’s Day slideshow. HAIR UGO Global Facebook Page 11 a.m.-noon Sunday

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Chicagoans celebrate Juneteenth, reflect on Black history: 'This is who we are'

While local events are energetic and entertaining, many participants also say they take time to reflect on black history and teach younger generations about the realities of race in america..

The Rev. Donald McFadden, a former pastor of St. Joseph Missionary Baptist Church, waves to the crowd on Saturday during the 10th annual Chicago Juneteenth Parade, along West Madison Street in East Garfield Park.

Pat Nabong/Sun-Times

Ruby Scott Smith has been celebrating Juneteenth since long before it was as widely known as it is today.

On Saturday, the 87-year-old danced to a drum line and rode a float in Garfield Park as part of the 10th annual African Awareness and Appreciation Parade in honor of Juneteenth.

For the festivities, Madison Street was adorned in black, red and green balloons and music thumped as the shimmering floats made their way west and onlookers danced and waved.

The parade is one of several Juneteenth events around the city this week , honoring the events of June 19, 1865, when the last enslaved people were freed in Texas two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued to end slavery.

Smith, from Naperville, attended the parade with her daughter Becky Smith and friends Valarie Watkins and Sharon McFadden. The group has attended the parade since its inception in 2014.

A paradegoer waves from a car during the 10th annual African American Awareness and Appreciation Parade in Garfield Park.

“We wanted to bring the community together for something positive,” said McFadden, whose husband, the Rev. Donald McFadden, started the parade 10 years ago. “We hear so much negativity about our community. That’s not who we are. This is who we are.”

The parade, which drew a crowd of about 150 spectators on Saturday, has grown in recent years as Juneteenth has become more popular and recognized as a federal holiday.

"[Before] people would say, Juneteenth?” McFadden said, and Smith responded “What’s that?”

McFadden continued: “Once we know more we can understand more about who we are as a people.”

A picnic at Garfield Park followed the parade, which featured dancers from the Westinghouse College Prep Goldettes in gold costumes that glinted in the sunlight, as well as floats from historically Black colleges and universities and various companies.

Sheila Delaney, who lives along the parade route in Garfield Park, was unaware the parade was happening Saturday. But she walked outside with her 4-year-old grandson Amir Moore, and the celebration caught her eye.

• All-Black burlesque show takes Juneteenth’s spirit of liberation to the stage

“I told my grandson, ‘Hey, look at them!’” she said. “It’s nice, it reminds me of the Bud Billiken parade.”

Arthur Turner brought his wife and two daughters to the parade and rode on the Transport Link float.

“This is a big deal for our family and a big deal for our community,” he said. “People seem to be really happy to see the parade coming down Madison every year.”

Just over a mile south, the Juneteenth Village Fest was getting underway in Douglass Park, with music, carnival rides and vendors. Attendees perused T-shirts and jewelry under white tents and scoped out the selection of food while waiting for musical performances to get started.

“I’m just here for the music, the food, the vendors. It’s just a good time for families to get together and the weather’s great,” said attendee Jahaan Randolph. “I’m just happy to be Black.”

Jahaan Randolph attends the Juneteenth Village Fest at Douglass Park on Saturday.

Mary Norkol/Sun-Times

Many participants said that in conjunction with the festivities, they take the opportunity to reflect on Black history and teach younger generations about the realities of race in America. Rendel Solomon, who runs a nonprofit that gives stock to young people and did a TedX talk titled “Sharecropper to Shareholder,” brought his 2-year-old daughter Savannah. He said he wanted her to celebrate, but also learn about her ancestors who worked in cotton fields in Jim Crow-era Mississippi.

“This little child will know nothing of picking cotton in a field, in part because of their fight,” he said. “It looks a little bit different than what my granny experienced, but there’s still injustice.”

Rendel, Danyelle and Savannah Solomon attend Juneteenth Village Fest at Douglass Park on Saturday.

The festivals, while an easy way to enjoy summer and relax, are also a starting point for conversations about race and history, he said. The Solomon family is planning to attend as many Juneteenth events as possible.

“We wouldn’t be having this conversation if it weren’t for this festival,” Solomon said.

Randolph and her friend NJ Williams sought to strike a balance between celebrating and reflecting.

“It’s another chance to reiterate to children the lessons they might not be learning in school,” Williams said. “They can celebrate, they can stay in their community.”

Randolph added: “It’s always a celebration to be Black because of the history in this country and in this world. It comes with a lot of pain that sticks around generations. We can take these tears and turn them into a smile.”

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The DNC Is Officially the Influencer Convention

Yacht parties, free snacks, and multiple lounges: This is what the Democratic National Convention in Chicago looks like so far for the influencers and creators invited. For the first time ever, 200 creators have been credentialed to cover the convention as part of the Democrats’ attempt to reach young voters . But while they’re receiving the VIP treatment, credentialed journalists are struggling to find an outlet to plug in their laptops.

As the DNC kicked off on Monday, security lines snaked for hours around the city blocks. Influencers, delegates, members of Congress, and journalists like CNN anchors Dana Bash and Wolf Blitzer were held up. Exiting and entering the convention was a chore, with creators and journalists waiting in hourlong lines to be screened by security. “Maybe this is a mistake,” Bash was heard saying about her choice to leave the event and return later.

Inside the United Center, however, everything was different. The credentialed influencers have at least four different locations for filming. There’s a three-tiered platform on the convention floor where influencers and creators can sit that has a direct vantage point to the stage. They’re also allowed up in the galleries alongside the traditional writing press. On Monday, many influencers spent most of their time in one of the two creator-only lounges; inside the lounges, convention staff restocked buffet tables full of wine and free food like prime rib sandwiches.

Before heading to the convention center, creators were invited to an exclusive yacht party. The bar onboard served “Midwest Margaritas” and the “I’m Speaking Spritz,” while the creators mingled with members of the Harris campaign and Governor Tim Walz’s wife, Gwen Walz.

The creator amenities and floor access stand in stark contrast to what the DNC has made available to credentialed press outlets, despite journalists and creators having similar accreditation. There were 15,000 members of the media who were credentialed for the event, and while some larger outlets have trailers outside of the convention center, journalists have complained that they’ve received far less floor access and work space than other previous party conventions. Some had a difficult time finding anywhere to sit. In one of the press sections, there weren’t enough power strips for the journalists present.

“We are concerned that the decision to reduce dedicated and accessible workspace by hundreds compared to prior conventions will hinder journalists’ ability to cover the historic nature of this convention,” the Standing Committee of Correspondents, an organization that represents journalists covering the party conventions, said in a statement to WIRED on Tuesday. “The Standing Committee of Correspondents urged the DNC to allocate significantly more workspace for print journalists attending this year's convention in Chicago than they decided to provide.

Influencers have become an integral part of campaign digital strategy on both sides of the aisle this cycle. On Monday, the New York Times reported that five creators are expected to speak at the convention this week. Some of these speakers are predominantly lifestyle influencers , while others create content advocating for specific issues like reproductive rights.

“Bringing creators to our convention will multiply our reach and ensure that everyone can witness democracy in action,” said Cayana Mackey-Nance, director of digital strategy for the DNCC, in a statement earlier this month. “We’re confident that when the world turns to Chicago in August on their phones, tablets, or TVs, they’ll see exactly who Democrats are and the future that we’re fighting for.”

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Oliver Browning | Tuesday 20 August 2024 06:21 BST

Joe Biden described as ‘OG girl dad’ by daughter Ashley in emotional DNC speech

Joe Biden ’s daughter, Ashley, described him as “the OG girl dad” in an emotional speech at the Democratic National Convention on Monday 19 August.

Ashley and first lady Dr Jill Biden spoke directly ahead of the 46th president in Chicago, discussing how he led their family through dark times — the same way, they said, he had led the Democratic Party and the nation.

The president’s youngest child also recalled her father’s support for her as an independent woman growing up.

“Joe Biden is the OG girl dad,” Ashley said.

“He told me I could be anything, and I could do anything.”

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Day 2 of the DNC features the Obamas and second gentleman Doug Emhoff

Day two of the Democratic National Convention has begun.

• America Votes: Latest U.S. election news and analysis from a Canadian perspective

Former U.S. president Barack Obama, former first lady Michelle Obama and second gentleman Doug Emhoff spoke at the DNC, a day after the unofficial farewell for President Joe Biden, who served eight years as Obama's vice-president. Biden won't be in the hall to see his former running mate speak, as he departed Chicago Monday after delivering his own speech.

With President Biden having addressed delegates, the week's full focus now turns to Vice-President Kamala Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Gov Tim Walz.

Here's the latest:

Obama warns about the danger of polarization

Obama pleads for civility and community in the nation's coarse public and online discourse, warning, "We chase the approval of strangers on our phones; we build all manner of walls and fences around ourselves and then wonder why we feel so alone."

Appealing to Americans to make meaningful connections, he said, "We don't trust each other as much because we don't take the time to know each other -- and in that space between us, politicians and algorithms teach us to caricature each other and troll each other and fear each other."

Obama echos the golden rule: 'Our fellow citizens deserve the same grace we hope they'll extend to us'

Obama encouraged Democrats to listen to those who disagree with them and fight for the votes of those who have differences with them.

"We start thinking that the only way to win is to scold and shame and out yell the other side," Obama said. "That approach may work for the politicians who just want attention and thrive on division. But it won't work for us."

Obama urged his party not to rush to pass judgment on those with values that are different from theirs, saying, "That's how we can build a true Democratic majority."

He added: "Our fellow citizens deserve the same grace we hope they'll extend to us."

That's a joke

While praising Harris repeatedly and even leading a chant of "Yes she can!" Obama also talked almost wistfully about the progress made under his administration's signature health care law, the Affordable Care Act.

He used the law's formal title, but then joked of Republicans, "Since it's become popular, they don't call it Obamacare no more."

Obama sneaks in some Easter eggs

The former president is bringing back some of his signature campaign lines, including a "Fired up, Ready to go" call, talk of "hope" and an instruction to voters -- "Do not boo, vote" -- when the crowd jeered a reference to Trump.

Obama heralds the 'fight' ahead

The former president warned the crowd at the DNC that even though "the torch has been passed" to Harris, the work for Democrats is not yet done.

"For all the incredible energy we've been able to generate over the last few weeks, this will still be a tight race in a closely divided country -- a country where too many Americans are still struggling and don't believe government can help," he said.

"Make no mistake, it will be a fight," Obama said. For all the energy and memes and rallies, he said, "this will still be a tight race in a closely divided country."

The last election was decided by 40,000 votes across three states.

'Kids with funny names'

Former president Obama began his speech with self-deprecation but also used one of his favourite lines about being an up-and-coming politician with a funny name.

"I am the only person stupid enough to speak after Michelle Obama," he joked.

Obama then added, "I'm feeling hopeful because this convention has always been pretty good to kids with funny names who believe in a country where anything is possible."

That was a reference to the difficulty some have had in pronouncing his and Kamala Harris' name -- a problem some had with Obama's when he was just emerging on the national stage.

Obama heaps praise upon his former running mate

Obama is highlighting Biden's record in one of the only significant discussions of his accomplishments since he turned over the convention to Harris on Monday night.

He praised Biden for being "selfless enough to do the rarest thing there is in politics: putting his own ambition aside for the sake of the country."

"History will remember Joe Biden as an outstanding president who defended democracy at a moment of great danger," Obama said. "I am proud to call him my president, but even prouder to call him my friend."

President Obama seeks to lend Harris his political capital

Former president Barack Obama sought to recapture the energy of his 2008 run for office and lend it to Harris' campaign effort this time around. "I don't know about you, but I'm feeling fired up! I'm feeling ready to go," Obama said. "I'm feeling hopeful because this convention has always been pretty good to kids with funny names who believe in a country where anything is possible."

Michelle Obama welcomes her husband Barack Obama to the stage

"Before I go, I have one more job tonight," Michelle Obama said after concluding her speech before introducing "somebody who knows a whole lot about hope."

She introduced Barak Obama who she said still wakes up every day thinking about what he can do for the country. The couple hugged warmly, kissed and then held their clasped hands skyward as the former president took the stage.

'They are still only human'

Michelle Obama is using Harris' and Walz's first names, belying not only her personal relationships with the nominees but also perhaps helping voters develop their own deeper perspective of them as people. It came as Obama went on to talk about how politicians aren't infallible and will make mistakes.

In closing, Michelle Obama sought to warn Democrats not to become "their own worst enemies," nitpicking qualities about Harris and Walz.

"Kamala and Tim have lived amazing lives. I am confident they will lead with compassion, inclusion and grace," Obama said. "But they are still only human. They're not perfect. And like all of us, they will make mistakes."

Michelle Obama: 'Going small is never the answer'

Even as she attacked Trump, Michelle Obama sought to capture a flavour of the energy from her 2016 convention address when she encouraged Democrats to take the high road against Donald Trump: "When they go low, we go high."

She warned Tuesday that Trump's policies and rhetoric "only makes us small. And let me tell you ... going small is never the answer."

She added: "Going small is petty ... it's unhealthy ... and quite frankly, it's unpresidential." She called Harris and running mate Tim Walz "good, big-hearted people."

Michelle Obama made a series of not-so-subtle jabs at Donald Trump

Without ever mentioning Trump's name, Michelle Obama made mention of what she called his "privilege" to "failing forward."

"We will never benefit from the affirmative action of gender, race or wealth," she said. "We don't have the luxury of whining or cheating others to get ahead."

Obama tweaked Trump for his history of attacking her and her husband, drawing rave applause from Democrats.

"His limited and narrow view of the world made him feel threatened by the existence of two hardworking, highly educated, successful people who also happened to be Black," she said.

"Who's going to tell him that the job he's currently seeking might just be one of those "Black jobs?"

Obama said she was last in Chicago to bury her mother

Former first lady Michelle Obama is giving a touching tribute to her mother, Marian Robinson, who died earlier this year.

She called her mother the woman who "set my moral compass high and showed me the power of my own voice."

"I still feel her loss so profoundly," she said.

Marian Robinson was an integral part of the Obamas' years in the White House, where she lived with them and helped raise the then first-couples' two daughters.

"I wasn't even sure I'd be sturdy enough to stand before you tonight but my heart compelled me to because of the sense of duty that I feel to honour her memory and remind us all not to squander the sacrifices our elders make to give us a better future," the former first lady said.

Many -- but not all -- delegates in the floor and first-tier sections are still on their feet as Obama continues her remarks. Standing or sitting, most seem to be listening and paying attention, with little side chatter quieted.

Former first lady Michelle Obama gets a hero's welcome at the DNC

Obama, a Chicago native from the city's South Side, took the stage in a sleeveless Navy dress to wild and raucous applause.

"Hope is making a comeback," she said.

She tied the energy in the Democratic party to her husband's campaign 16 years ago. "Something wonderfully magical is in the air, isn't it," she said. "It's the contagious power of hope."

"American, hope is making a comeback."

Emhoff says Harris will 'lead with joy and toughness'

Emhoff told the crowd that Thursday marked his and Harris' 10th wedding anniversary.

He joked that that meant he'd have to hear the embarrassing voicemail again -- but also said he'd hear her give a speech accepting the Democratic presidential nomination.

"With your help, she'll lead with joy and toughness. With that laugh and that look," he said.

Emhoff shares his personal biography

Emhoff is mixing his personal story and detailing his background with praise for his wife.

"She's showing you what you already know, she is ready to lead," Emhoff said, imploring the crowd that Harris will bring joy and also a steady hand to the White House.

Emhoff described being McDonald's employee of the month and said he's still best friends with the people he grew up with and that their group chat "is probably blowing up right now."

Emhoff gently tried to defuse Republican political attacks against the way his wife laughs, telling the convention, "You know that laugh, I love that laugh!"

Republicans have roundly mocked Harris' laugh, which sometimes erupts during awkward moments. Trump even toyed with giving her the nickname Laffin' Kamala Harris.

The second gentleman stresses his middle-class upbringing for a national audience

Emhoff detailed at the Democratic National Convention how he was the son of two Brooklynites who have been married for nearly seven decades, and that the family moved to New Jersey when he was a kid because of opportunities for his father, who worked in the shoe business.

When his dad got another new job, Emhoff said, the family moved across the country to Los Angeles, where money was tight enough that he worked at McDonald's for extra money while in high school. Harris has also played up her experience working at McDonald's on the campaign trail, lately.

Emhoff said he used loans and help from his dad to get through law school and went to work as a lawyer where he met "the guys in my fantasy football league" where his team name is still Narvana, a shoutout to its 1990s roots.

Several protestors outside the DNC have been taken into custody

Multiple people have been taken into custody following an intense demonstration and march by pro-Palestinian protesters outside the Israeli consulate in Chicago.

Some demonstrators set an American flag on fire in the street as the celebratory roll call for Harris took place inside the United Center about two miles away.

As protesters regrouped and approached a line of police in riot gear in front of a Chicago skyscraper that houses the Israeli consulate, an officer said into a megaphone, "You are ordered to immediately disburse." A woman in the front of the march shouted back with her own megaphone: "We're not scared of you."

Bernie Sanders plays the hits

It's a new convention, but much of Sen. Bernie Sanders' messaging is the same he's been delivering for several political cycles. A one-time Democratic challenger to both Biden and Harris, Sanders appeared on the DNC stage Tuesday to chants of his name by convention goers.

In his 2016 presidential campaign, Sanders often ranted against billionaires and promised that he'd aim to implement policies that would somewhat even out the economy, a message he returned to in his remarks.

Sanders also called in large part for the removal of big money from election funding.

"Billionaires in both parties should not be able to buy elections, including primary elections," he said.

The Vermont progressive also laid out a series of liberal policy goals for the party if Harris were to win the president and Democrats control Congress next year. The list included expanding Medicare and raising the national minimum wage.

"I look forward to working with Kamala and Tim to pass this agenda," Sanders said. "And let's be clear. This is not a radical agenda."

Harris pauses speech when someone in the crowd appears to be in distress

"We need a medical assistant here," she said. "We need a nurse. We need a medic here, please."

She asked her supporters to clear a path so medics could reach the person needing assistance.

Then she declared to applause: "We're going to be OK. We're going to be alright."

Then she added: "This is who we are. This is what we're about, looking out for each other," using the moment to continue the contrast she was drawing with Trump.

Harris wrapped up her roughly 25-minute remarks in Milwaukee with one of the signature call-and-response mantras of her campaign: "When we fight, we win."

In Milwaukee, Harris emphasizes the hard work ahead for her supporters

"We know this is going to be a tight race until the very end," Harris said. "We have hard work ahead of us but we like hard work. Hard work is good work. And with your help, this November we will win."

She then began laying out the contrast between herself and Trump: one vision "focused on the future" and another "focused on the past."

Navarro compares Trump to dictators

Navarro, a co-host of ABC's "The View" and a longtime Republican critic of Trump, also sought to paint a parallel between Trump and dictators in countries like her native Nicaragua.

"Let me tell you what communist dictators do," Navarro said. "They attack the free press, they call them the enemy of the people."

She added, "They refuse to accept legitimate elections when they lose and call for violence to stay in power."

Ana Navarro rallies the pet lovers

Political commentator Ana Navarro evoked a now familiar Democratic political attack line against Republicans, sticking up for the nation's pets.

"Kamala Harris, she likes dogs. And my dog ChaCha likes her," Navarro said as a picture of Harris with her dog flashed on the convention floor screen. To loud cheers, she continued, "Dogs are good judges of character. So are cats."

That was a reference to Trump's running mate, JD Vance, once deriding "childless cat ladies," a past remark that has roiled the GOP campaign since he was chosen.

"We cannot elect a president who does not like dogs or hangs around with people who shoot them," Navarro deadpanned. That was an allusion to Trump, who doesn't have any pets, and to another leading Republican, South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem who killed a dog, detailing it in her own memoir.

Jewish protesters and allies block Israeli consulate in Chicago, demanding a ceasefire in Gaza

A few dozen protesters chanting "Free, free Palestine!" gathered outside a skyscraper that houses the Israeli consulate for a pro-Palestinian demonstration on the second night of the Democratic National Convention. Some carried Palestinian flags, while many others wore black and covered their faces.

The consulate, located about two miles (3.2 kilometres) from the United Center, has been the site of numerous demonstrations since the war in Gaza began in October. It is in a building connected to the Ogilvie Transportation Center, a major commuter rail station.

Dozens of Chicago police officers were posted outside the building, where law enforcement had closed down most of the entrances to the building on Tuesday, allowing commuters to come in only one entrance where armed officers were also posted. Many of the building's shops were closed. Martha Hill, a spokeswoman for the Metra commuter rail service, says train service is running as normal.

Sean Astin joins Indiana delegation

Actor Sean Astin, best known for playing the titular Notre Dame football player in "Rudy," joined the Indiana delegation to help cast its 86 delegates for Harris and Walz.

"I want what's best for Indiana and that means electing Kamala Harris the first woman president of the United States of America," Astin said.

Lil Jon makes a surprise appearance during Harris roll call

In a surprise appearance, rapper Lil Jon joined the Georgia delegation to help deliver its 123 votes for Harris. The rapper's hit song 'Get Low' has became a sort of rally cry for the Harris-Walz campaign in the last few weeks.

Democrats highlight former Trump voters who switched to supporting Harris

For the second in as many nights, the Democratic convention has frequently featured stories from ordinary voters, who talked about voting for Trump in 2016 or 2020 or both, but said they wouldn't do so again.

The voters, filmed in what to be in their homes in states around the country, described being fed up with Trump's criminal conviction, his frequent lying for political gain and his leading a mob that attacked the U.S. Capitol in January 2021.

The effort recalled Republicans, who during their convention featured frequent videos of "everyday Americans" to fire up their own crowd last month in Milwaukee.

Trump's former press secretary backs Harris

Trump's former White House press secretary says she used to be a "true believer" who spent holidays with the Trump family, but now she's backing Harris.

Stephanie Grisham told Democratic delegates that Trump "mocks" his supporters behind closed doors and "has no empathy, no morals and no fidelity to the truth."

This fall, Grisham said she's backing Harris because the Democrat "tells the truth, she respects the American people and she has my vote."

Grisham resigned from her White House post following the Jan. 6, 2021, assault on the U.S. Capitol, the first senior staffer to do so that day.

She held no press briefings as Trump's press secretary, explaining "unlike my boss, I never wanted to stand behind that podium and lie."

Democrats throw the book at Trump (again)

One of Democrats' favourite new political props, a massive book labelled Project 2025, made a repeat appearance at the second night of the DNC.

On Tuesday, Malcolm Kenyatta, a Pennsylvania state representative and rising Democratic star, totted the book out onto the convention stage before roasting Trump and his running mate Sen. JD Vance.

"Usually Republicans want to ban books, but now they are trying to shove this down our throats," Kenyatta said.

In a sign of how unpopular Project 20205 is with the public, Trump has disavowed the effort. Still, it was crafted by many leading conservatives who would likely hold influential positions in a future Trump administration.

The book made its first appearance on Monday when Michigan state Sen. Mallory McMorrow walked on stage and dropped the hefty tome on the top of the speaking lectern

Presidential grandsons stump for Harris

Grandsons of former presidents Jimmy Carter and John F. Kennedy cast Vice-President Haris in the same image as their famous family members.

“Kamala Harris carries my grandfather’s legacy,” said Jason Carter. “She knows what is right.”

He said the 99-year-old former president wishes he could be in attendance. “His body may be weak tonight, but his spirit is stronger than ever,” Carter said. “My grandfather can’t wait to vote for Kamala Harris.”

Jack Schlossberg, Kennedy’s grandson, said like when his grandfather was elected in 1960, “Once again, the torch has been passed to a new generation,” he said. “She believes in America like my grandfather did — that we do things not because they are easy, but because they are hard.”

Patti LaBelle performs 'You Are My Friend'

The DNC crowd didn’t get James Taylor singing “You’ve Got a Friend” but they did get another music legend — R&B star Patti LaBelle — singing “You Are My Friend.”

LaBelle sang the stirring number during a memorial segment as the proceedings began for the evening. “God bless America, Kamala Harris!” she called out at the end.

This isn’t the first time at the DNC for LaBelle — she wowed the crowd two decades ago at the 2004 convention with her rendition of Sam Cooke’s “A Change Is Gonna Come.”

Last month, LaBelle kicked off her 8065 Tour at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles — “80 years of life, 65 years in music.” And in June, she sang “Oh, People” on the White House lawn for President Joe Biden’s Juneteenth concert, joined by Gladys Knight among other artists.

And we're off

Night 2 of the Democratic National Convention has kicked off in Chicago, with organizers moving up the start time by half an hour to try and keep the program from running as far behind schedule as it did on the opening night.

On Monday, the convention opened late and never got back on schedule, with President Joe Biden delivering the featured speech around 11:30 p.m. on the East Coast.

Organizers promised more tweaks in the schedule to keep things moving more quickly on Tuesday.

Democrat campaign group breaks fundraising record

The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee announced that it raised US$17.6 million in July, making the Committee’s year-to-date total a record US$107.1.

“The American people are hearing Democrats’ message of lowering costs, growing the middle class, and defending their rights, and they are showing up to support this forward-looking agenda,” said DCCC Chair Suzan DelBene in a statement. The DCCC is the campaign arm of Democrats in the House of Representatives.

Obama will make the case for Harris during his address

Former president Barack Obama will use his remarks tonight to make the case for Harris’ election and lay out the task before Democrats in the coming 10 weeks.

That’s according to an Obama aide who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss his speech in advance. Obama will also make the case for the values of the party and nation he believes are at stake in the race against Trump.

The speech comes as Obama plans to increase his political activity this fall to support Democrats up and down the ticket.

20.3 million viewers tuned into the DNC on Monday

Democrats reached an estimated 20.3 million television viewers for the first night of their national convention, the Nielsen company said. That compares to the 18.3 million Republicans reached on the first night of their convention last month.

Nielsen tallied the audience from 13 separate networks that televised the event from 10 p.m. Eastern until the end of President Biden’s speech after midnight.

Most people, 4.6 million, watched on MSNBC with CNN coming in second, Nielsen said.

The key night for political watchers will be Thursday when Vice-President Harris delivers her acceptance speech for the top of the Democratic ticket. Last month, Trump, less than a week removed from an assassination attempt, reached 25.3 million for his speech.

No credible danger following bomb threat

The U.S. Secret Service and Chicago Police Department found no credible dangers after checking into bomb threats made Tuesday at “a number of locations” in downtown Chicago where the Democratic National Convention is taking place.

Law enforcement cleared the affected areas and are continuing to assess any reported threats.

Gov. Pritzker denies 2024 presidential aspirations

Democratic Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker denies seriously considering running for the presidency in 2024, though he’s flattered people talked about him in that context.

He said at the CNN-Politico Grill that the background plotting that some assumed he’d been doing in the shuffle of Biden stepping down was “not occurring.” He said he likes being governor but didn’t rule out running for president in the future.

Pritzker said he had campaigned with Biden and DNC officials to hold this year’s convention in Chicago and was happy about how it was going so far.

“As you all can see, Chicago’s a great city to have a convention,” Pritzker said. But when asked if he’s angling to host another one in 2028, he said that would be premature.

“We aren’t starting a bidding process yet,” he said.

James Taylor isn't mad about getting bumped from the DNC

Singer James Taylor said it was an honour to be at the Democratic convention despite his performance getting cut for time.

Taylor was to have sung his 1971 hit “You’ve Got a Friend” accompanied by cellist Owen Young and singers Kenya Hathaway and Matthew Johnson before President Biden’s speech on Monday night. But convention officials said they had to make cuts because of the “raucous applause” that was interrupting speakers and prolonging the program.

“It became clear, as the evening unfolded, that there wouldn’t be time for our ‘You’ve Got a Friend’ with cello and voices,” Taylor said in a statement Tuesday. “Maybe the organizers couldn’t anticipate the wild response from the floor of the United Center.”

He added, “Anyway, sorry to disappoint. But a great and inspirational, quintessentially American moment. We were honoured to be there.”

Gen Z congressman on his political start

Florida Democratic Rep. Maxwell Frost, the first Gen Z member of Congress, has more in common with the oldest president in U.S. history than some might think.

Onstage at the CNN-Politico Grill, the 27-year-old Frost recalled relating to Biden over entering politics at a young age. Frost got elected to the House at 25, and Biden was elected to the Senate at 29.

“He called me when I first won my race, and we talked about the similarities,” Frost said. “We spoke about his experiences going through that.”

Frost said he thinks Gen Z cares about Biden’s legacy and called himself a “big Joe Biden fan.” But he now supports Vice-President Kamala Harris, with whom he said he shares something else: a diverse background.

“We talk about intersectionality and all these different things, but for someone like Kamala Harris, this is her life. Being mixed race. Understanding different cultures,” Frost said. “And this is what our country is. Me too.”

Trump says Harris supports defunding the police

Turning to the men gathered behind him in uniform, he asked “do you want to be defunded?” Some in the crowd booed at the question.

Turning to the DNC, Trump said Harris must have been laughing when President Joe Biden spoke in Chicago on Monday night.

“It was a vicious violent overthrow of a president of the United States,” he said of Biden’s decision to not seek reelection.

Israel supporters gather in downtown Chicago

Israel supporters, including some relatives of people kidnapped by Hamas, gathered at a pro-Israel art installation Tuesday morning in downtown Chicago to call on U.S. leaders to continue backing Israel and pushing for the release of hostages.

The art installation included giant milk cartons bearing photos of some of the hostages.

“We are here to sound a voice,” Michael Herzog, Israeli ambassador to the United States, told the small crowd. “We are here to keep the issue of the hostages high on the agenda.”

He noted that 319 days have passed since the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas. “We need to call on Hamas to let our people go,” he said, prompting the crowd to chant “let them go.”

Elan Carr, CEO of the Israeli-American Council, condemned the pro-Palestinian protesters who have descended on Chicago this week, calling them “fringe crazies” and demanding that U.S. leaders “stand unequivocally with the state of Israel.”

Consul General of Israel to the Midwest Yinam Cohen said he was disappointed by the “institutional support of the city of Chicago for the anti-Israel protests.”

DNC roll call will be ceremonial

Democratic delegates already voted virtually to nominate Harris as their presidential nominee.

Regardless, they’re still holding a celebratory in-person roll call vote on Tuesday — and it’s expected to be a party.

The roll call will feature a live DJ playing songs to represent each of the 57 delegations present, a convention spokesperson said. It also will feature music, lights, visuals and special effects.

The spokesperson said those present in person or tuning in from home can expect to hear a range of diverse voices during the roll call, including elected officials at all levels of government and delegates who will share moving personal stories.

The roll call will start with Delaware — Biden’s home state — and end with California and Minnesota, home states to Harris and Walz.

Secret Service looking into bomb threats in Chicago

The U.S. Secret Service was checking into bomb threats made Tuesday at “various locations” in downtown Chicago where the Democratic National Convention is taking place.

Law enforcement was screening the affected areas and examining the credibility of the threat, according to a message from the joint information center established for the convention.

A reporter for Fox 32 in Chicago said in a post on X that their station received an email making a pipe bomb threat at four hotels in downtown Chicago.

Oversized Project 2025 book will be seen again at DNC

Michigan State Sen. Mallory McMorrow kicked off her speech at the opening night of the Democratic National Convention with a bang, slamming down an oversized hardcover copy of the Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025 book on the podium.

The book, which McMorrow joked in an interview weighs as much as her 3-year-old daughter, is filled entirely with actual text from Project 2025, the term used for the Heritage Foundation’s nearly 1,000-page handbook for the next Republican administration.

The idea to create an oversized version of Project 2025 first came about several weeks ago when Vice-President Kamala Harris’ campaign manager, Julie Chavez Rodriguez, contacted McMorrow about speaking about Project 2025 at the convention.

McMorrow said she had never spoken to an arena full of people before and wanted to come up with something that would “play well both at home and in the arena.”

According to McMorrow, Monday night won’t be the last appearance of the massive Project 2025 book at the convention. It will be displayed by various speakers throughout the week, with a designated “keeper of the book” ensuring its safekeeping in the interim.

“There will be others who pick up the book baton,” McMorrow said. “That won’t be the last time you see that Cheesecake Factory menu.”

Broadway stars form group to back Harris

A list of Broadway heavy hitters — including Audra McDonald, Kristin Chenoweth, Sara Bareilles, Tony Kushner and Sarah Paulson — have gathered to back the Democratic ticket, creating the volunteer group Broadway for Harris.

The group says it will use phone banks, canvass, social media and host special fundraising events to increase voter participation in key swing districts. A Democratic National Convention watch party on Thursday in Manhattan will launch the group.

Members include more than 70 industry leaders, current and former Broadway performers, producers, writers, directors, choreographers and marketing specialists. A public Zoom call has been set for Aug. 26 to learn about how fans can get involved.

The group includes actors Rachel Brosnahan, Adrienne Warren, Idina Menzel, John Leguizamo, Billy Porter and Alan Cumming; songwriters Alan Menken, Jeanine Tesori, Stephen Schwartz and Benj Pasek and Justin Paul; playwrights David Henry Hwang and Jeremy O. Harris; and producers Jordan Roth, Thomas Schumacher and Jeffrey Seller.

Walz: 'We’re not going to make that mistake again'

Democratic vice-presidential candidate Tim Walz says he listened to Hillary Clinton address the party’s convention Monday night and couldn’t help but imagine “how different things could have been in 2016, if we’d gotten the work done.”

“We’re not going to make that mistake again,” Walz said at a meeting of the convention’s Women’s Caucus.

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul says Harris nomination could be barrier breaking moment

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul called the nomination of Vice-President Kamala Harris a historic, potentially barrier breaking moment for women in politics during a gathering of the Democrat’s Women’s Caucus.

Hochul referenced past trailblazing Democratic women like Rep. Shirley Chisholm, a Jamaican American New Yorker who ran for president in 1968, and Geraldine Ferraro, who served as the party’s presidential nominee in 1984.

“Maybe this means that women can do more than be the supporting cast,” Hochul said.

“There will be no more barriers. That’ll be proof that every little girl can be whatever she wants because someone came before,” Hochul said. She urged the audience to prevent a “Trump travesty” this year.

New security measures after activists clashed with police

A Chicago park, which had erupted into chaos during the first day of the Democratic National Convention as several dozen activists clashed with police, was calm Tuesday morning but now fortified with new security to prevent further breaches.

During a march of several thousand calling for a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war, the group paused at a park a block from the convention center. Several dozen activists then broke away from the larger group, breaching police fencing before being pushed back by officers, leading to multiple arrests.

On Tuesday morning, an extra line of fencing was installed at the park and the tall metal barriers were reinforced to prevent protesters from lifting and removing the panels in the future. No police officers or protesters were present at the park early Tuesday.

Closer to downtown Chicago, security was tighter than usual — including law enforcement officers with weapons slung across their bodies — outside the office building that houses the Israeli consulate and a major city transportation hub. Metal barricades were set up and an officer said they were preparing for a 7 p.m. demonstration.

Most of the largest demonstrations have been organized by the Coalition to March on the DNC, which has focused on calling for a ceasefire in Gaza. But smaller protests have popped up around the city, including disruptions at the convention’s welcome party at Navy Pier.

DNC organizers plan to start earlier on 2nd day

Organizers are planning an earlier start to day two of the Democratic National Convention in hopes avoiding scheduling that ran hours late and into the wee hours of the night on day one.

DNC director Alex Hornbrook said Tuesday morning that “we made some real-time adjustments last night” and “we’re working with our speakers and making some other adjustments this evening” including starting at 5.30 p.m. local time in Chicago “to make sure that we stay on track.”

During a briefing with reporters, Hornbrook ducked a question about speakers who were canceled on night one as the program ran long — including a performance by acclaimed singer-songwriter James Taylor — would be rescheduled. He said only, “Our program team is working very hard right now to ensure that we can be on schedule” without providing further details.

President Joe Biden gave Monday’s night key address, but didn’t take the stage until around 11:30 p.m. on the East Coast, and the program didn’t wrap up until well after midnight for a large chunk of the audience watching around the country.

The DNC won’t only feature speeches by Democrats

The Harris campaign announced Tuesday that several Republican leaders will also offer remarks in Chicago, including former U.S. Rep. Adam Kinzinger of Illinois, former Georgia Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan and the mayor of Mesa, Arizona, John Giles.

Also speaking are former Trump White House staffers Olivia Troye, a former national security official, and Stephanie Grisham, who was a White House press secretary.

Grisham said she knows Harris will “defend our freedoms and represent our nation with honesty and integrity.”

“I never thought I’d be speaking at a Democratic convention,” she said in a statement. “But, after seeing firsthand who Donald Trump really is, and the threat he poses to our country, I feel very strongly about speaking out.”

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