It was a wet, dreary day for sure but marchers, floats, music, culture and an army of onlookers and spectators were just as present as they would have been if the skies were clear at the 57th Annual African American Day Parade in Harlem on Sept. 20.
“Everyone loves the African American Day parade. We don’t let no rain stop us,” said Jackie Rowe-Adams, co-founder of Harlem Mothers and Fathers S.A.V.E., and a parade Marshal. “The African American Day Parade is what brings everybody together. And this is what we have to continue to do is to bring the community together,” Adams emphasized.
The pre-show included performances from Mariah Rae, Taylor Lovett, Kalvin Kristi, Ada Don, Descendent, Aisha Jackson, PETAWANE, and Cruz Angel, the 2024 Apollo Amateur award winner. The Apollo also received its community institution award, kicking off the main event.
Drawing as many as 900,000 people, the parade’s theme, “Good Businesses Sustain Our Future,” highlighted Black-owned businesses and community leaders. It featured more than 35 floats, 300 performances, marching units, and community organizations, including the return of the Grambling State University “World-Famed” Tiger Marching Band for its 100th anniversary.
Dr. Nikole Roebuck, band director for Grambling State, told AmNews her band was prepared to “show up and show out” rain or not, emphasizing the momentous occasion.
Harlem resident, Honorary guest, and longtime parade attendee Sylvia Alston, 92, also reflected on the importance of the event.
Discover more from InnerCity News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
