Juneteenth Jubilee: Jadakiss, Mario, and More Ignite the All About Us Festival

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( ENSPIRE Community Spotlight ) Rain or Shine, Liberty State Park Celebrated Black History, Culture, and Freedom

The air was electric, the vibes were immaculate, and the spirit of unity was palpable – even as the skies opened up! This past Juneteenth, we were there, immersed in the third annual All About Us Festival at Liberty State Park in Jersey City. Despite the less-than-ideal weather, with rain showers gracing the afternoon on June 19th in New Jersey, thousands still gathered, a true testament to the community’s unwavering spirit and dedication to this monumental celebration of Black history, culture, and enduring freedom. And let us tell you, it was nothing short of spectacular!

From the moment we stepped onto The Green Ring, the atmosphere was infectious. Umbrellas popped open, raincoats emerged, but spirits remained high. Shannon Mitchell, the visionary founder of the All About Us Festival, perfectly articulated the heart of the event: “We created this space to remind us of what freedom looks like–being together, being seen, and celebrating who we are. Black history is American history, and this day is for all of us.” This sentiment resonated deeply throughout the entire day, proving that a little rain couldn’t dampen the powerful message of unity.

Powerhouse vocals of Robin S. and the soulful sounds of gospel favorite Kenny Bobien. Ted Smooth hit the decks, alongside the incredible spins from DJs First Choice, Wallah, Mahogany, Midnite, Loki, and J Nice. Special guest hosts Swaggie Sie, Tubbs Krueger, Billy The Billionaire, and Brianna Armstead kept the energy soaring between sets.

The stage was a non-stop hub of energy, defying the drizzle and building to unforgettable moments. The crowd was already buzzing when hip-hop icon Jadakiss took the stage, delivering his signature flow that had the audience rapping along with him word for word, a powerful collective energy filling the park. Then, in a truly memorable turn of events, just as the rain began to fall a bit more steadily, R&B sensation Mario made his entrance. A palpable wave of excitement surged through the crowd, and as one, attendees turned back towards the stage, undeterred by the increasing raindrops, ready to sing along to his smooth vocals. It was a testament to the star power and the audience’s unwavering enthusiasm for the music and the celebration.

Beyond the incredible music, the All About Us Festival truly lived up to its mission, showcasing the resilience and vibrancy of the Black community. We explored a bustling marketplace showcasing curated goods from talented Black-owned businesses, discovering unique treasures and supporting entrepreneurs, many of whom were undeterred by the weather. The tantalizing aromas from the food trucks filled the air, offering delicious gourmet bites that satisfied every craving. And for the younger festival-goers, family-friendly activities were abundant, ensuring that every generation felt included in this momentous celebration, even if it meant puddle-jumping and dancing in the rain. The festival even featured educational exhibits focused on Black history and culture, offering a space for reflection amidst the festivities.

A Deeper Look at Juneteenth: For those unfamiliar, Juneteenth, officially recognized as a federal holiday in 2021, commemorates June 19, 1865. On this day, Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, announcing the freedom of over 250,000 enslaved African Americans, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. It’s a day that symbolizes liberation, resilience, and the ongoing journey towards true equality. The All About Us Festival serves as a powerful reminder of this crucial historical milestone and its enduring significance, highlighting that even adverse conditions cannot dim the light of freedom and community.

The All About Us Festival wasn’t just an event; it was an experience. It was a testament to the power of community, the richness of Black culture, and the unwavering pursuit of freedom and joy, even in the face of a little inclement weather. We left feeling uplifted, inspired, and even more connected to the vibrant tapestry of our shared history. The dedication of everyone involved, from the organizers to the attendees who embraced the elements, truly made this Juneteenth celebration a memorable one. We’re already counting down to next year, rain or shine!

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