Organizers are gearing up for the 56th Annual African American Day Parade set for Sunday, Sept. 21 in Harlem. Before you head to the festivities, here are some things you need to know.
1. Education takes the spotlight for this year’s theme.
The theme for this year’s parade is “Education is Our #1 Priority” honoring individuals and organizations that have made key education contributions to the African American community including historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), local schools, teachers and principals.
2. Be sure to catch the Pre-Parade Show.
Before the parade starts there will be a Pre-Parade Show from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in front of the reviewing stand at West 125th Street and Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Boulevard. The show will feature performances by community organizations.
Credit: Bill Moore photo
3. The grand marshals have made major contributions to African-American culture.
Several figures in education are serving as this year’s grand marshals. Among them including leaders of historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs): Dr. Tony Allen, president of Delaware State University; Dr. Martin Lamelle Jr., president of Grambling State University; and Dr. Patrice Ramsey, president of Medgar Evers College. Additional grand marshals include Sandra Bookman, anchor of Eyewitness News on ABC7/WABC-TV; WBLS 107.5 FM radio personality Dr. Bob Lee; Joy Bivins, director of the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture; and the founder and CEO of the Make the Grade Foundation.
Dr. Patricia Ramsey Credit: Contributed
4. This year’s parade will honor notable people who recently passed
This year the Harlem community lost notable people including Congressman Charlie Rangel, NAACP New York State Conference President Hazel Dukes and Harlem Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Lloyd A. Williams. All three were regularly part of the African American Day Parade and thier legacies will be honored at this year’s event
Hazel Dukes
Charles B. Rangel and Inez Dickens Credit: Bill Moore photo
Lloyd A. Williams Credit: Michael Appleton/Mayoral Photography Office
5. The parade will host the 3rd Annual “Get Involved Community, Literacy, Health, and Culture Celebration”
This year the African American Day Parade is hosting the third annual “Get Involved Community Literacy, Health & Celebration of Culture” on Saturday, Sept. 20 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Harlem State Office Building Plaza. The event will feature games, giveaways, a health panel, community resources and performances
Youngster enjoys Sunday’s African American Day parade
in Harlem. Credit: Benny Polatseck/Mayoral Photography Office photo
6. Wave at the politicians (and the candidates) when you see them.
Several politicians will be marching in the parade. Expect to see Gov. Kathy Hochul, Mayor Eric Adams, Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, State Attorney General Letitia James along with several city and state politicians. With the NYC mayoral and city council elections in November, some candidates will be walking the parade route.
Public Advocate Jumaane Williams at the African American Day Parade Credit: Office of NYC Public Advocate/Twitter
7. Get there early.
The parade kicks off at 12:30 p.m. and starts at 111th Street and Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Boulevard and heads up to 137th Street. It’s best to secure your spot early before the parade starts so you can see.
African American Day Parade
8. You’ll see your family, friends and neighbors IN the parade.
Several community and national organizations along with churches, labor unions, colleges, sororities and fraternities are participating in the parade. So, if you see someone you know walking the route, give them a shout!
Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity at African American Day Parade. Sept 21, 2014.
9. The weather is supposed to be nice.
Sunday’s forecast is calling for mostly sunny skies with a comfortable high near 73. Be sure to bring a jacket and water.
African American Day Parade
10. Have fun!
The African-American Day Parade is a day where the community can come together for celebration and pride for our culture. Bring your family, see old friends and let’s make this the best parade ever!
African American Day Parade Credit: Cyril Josh Barker photo
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