News and Upcoming Events for African-Americans in Cleveland
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Out & About - Photos and Event Recaps
2024
Fatima Family Center Thanksgiving featuring Retired Pro Basketball Players
The Fatima Family Center serves Cleveland's Hough community by providing events, recreational and educational opportunities, and supportive services for youth, families, adults and seniors. A staple of the Hough community, (it's right across from historic League Park at 6600 Lexington) Fatima Family Center offers programs and services for all ages and all members of the community. Among its many services for the community they hosted a Thanksgiving turkey and groceries giveaway on Tuesday November 26, 2024
What made the event extra special was the partnership with the Cleveland Chapter of the National Basketball Retired Players Association Everyone was excited to see the retired basketball stars helping out. And they weren't just there for photo ops or window dressing - they worked!
Campy Russell, Derick Polk, Lawrence Boston and Manny Leaks with Dan Hanson who was feeling short
El Hajj Amir Khalid A. Samad is an internationally known and recognized Community Activist and leader. Among many well-deserved honors, Khalid was inducted (by Blaine Griffin) into the Cleveland International Hall of Fame in 2016. When Khalid Samad was diagnosed with some serious health issues, his wife Raj invited people from the community for a tribute event.
African American Cultural Garden on One World Day 2024
The Cleveland African American community demonstrated their heritage with a very large group of people at One World Day in the Cleveland Cultural Gardens. One World Day has been the official event of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation since 1946. They marched in the Parade of Flags with the Warrensville Hts. band
African American Garden in 2024 One World Day Parade of Flags
After the Parade of Flags they welcomed visitors to their Garden for a variety of activities.
Djapo Cultural Arts Institute at World on Stage for 2024 Pan-American Masters Games
Cleveland was the proud host of the 2024 Pan-American Masters Games from July 12-21, 2024. There were a variety of Special Events for the athletes and other visitors including the World on Stage international concert hosted by the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation with the Greater Cleveland Sports Commission. In conjunction with the 2024 Pan-American Masters Games, the July 20 celebration featured performances by the Kwan Family Lion Dance Team, PIAST Polish Folk Ensemble and Djapo Cultural Arts Institute dancers and drummers. The Djapo Cultural Institute closed out the ceremony with an energetic performance of African drums and dances.
World on Stage Community Night - Glenville's Got Talent
Every summer the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation hosts a series of free World on Stage concerts at the Centennial Peace Plaza on MLK Blvd. in Cleveland. On July 18, 2024 there was a Community Celebration with the Famicos Foundation and the 2nd annual Glenville's Got Talent competition.
Dr. Eugene Jordan inducted into the Cleveland International Hall of Fame
Since 2010, the Cleveland International Hall of Fame (CIHF) has inducted people who have made significant and lasting contributions to our multicultural society. Cleveland is home to people representing about 120 different ethnic groups. The CIHF exists not only to honor those special people but also to inspire a new generation of leaders to follow in their footsteps. Over 100 worthy candidates were nominated for the 2024 Class of the Cleveland International Hall of Fame.
The late Dr. Eugene Jordan provided quality, professional dental services to those who couldn't afford care in East Cleveland he was a force in the African-American community. He was inducted posthumously at a sold out (500 people) event on April 23, 2024. His family accepted the honor on his behalf.
Dr. Eugene Jordan's children
Dr. Jordan was inducted into the Cleveland International Hall of Fame by Rev. Dr. Otis Moss Jr..
Rev. Dr. Otis Moss Jr. inducts Dr. Eugene Jordan in front of his children.
For 54 years the City of Cleveland has celebrated Black History Month with a Flag Raising Celebration which was started by former Cleveland Mayor Carl B. Stokes. The 2024 event was held on February 3, 2024.
A highlight of the event was the marching out to the City Hall steps to see the African Flag raised above Cleveland City Hall.
Another highlight was the special recognition for El Hajj Amir Khalid A. Samad for his decades of service.
Angela Woodson and Khalid A. Samad
Don't miss the People Page where you can see photos of many of the speakers, organizations and attendees.
Cleveland Council of Black Nurses
2023
Jesse Owens Olympic Oak Plaza Dedication
There was a dedication of the Jesse Owens Olympic Oak Plaza near Rockefeller Lagoon in Cleveland Ohio on Monday, September 25, 2023.
James Cleveland "Jesse" Owens was the track and field athlete who achieved international fame at the 1936 Summer Olympics in Berlin, Germany, by winning four gold medals: 100 meters, long jump, 200 meters, and 4 × 100-meter relay. As a black American man, Jesse was able to disprove Hitler's myth of Aryan supremacy by being the most successful athlete at the Games right in front of Hitler. Cleveland played an important part of Jesse's life. At the age of nine, Jesse and his family moved to Cleveland from Alabama and first came to national attention when he was a student of East Technical High School in Cleveland and later attended Ohio State University.
African American Cultural Garden on One World Day 2023
The Cleveland African American community demonstrated their proud heritage with a very large group of people at One World Day in the Cleveland Cultural Gardens. One World Day has been the official event of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation since 1946. Over 50,000 people visited the gardens on One World Day 2023.
The annual Glenville Festival was back on Saturday August 12, 2023 with a theme of Hip Hop at 50. There were family activities, music, food trucks, kids games, classic cars, boxing, community resources and performances.
The Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation presented a series of World on Stage events at the Centennial Peace Plaza in the Gardens to showcase various heritages such as African, Middle Eastern, Hispanic and Asian. On Saturday August 5, 2023 a special community night was presented by the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation and Famicos Foundation. The evening began with a performance by Russell Thompson and Free Agent.
Russell Thompson and Free Agent
This was followed by the first annual Glenville's Got Talent competition. Acts submitted a video of their performance and the best were chosen to appear on stage.
African Heritage Day - Cleveland Cultural Gardens World on Stage
The Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation 2023 World on Stage events in the Gardens are showcasing various heritages. The first 2023 event was African Heritage Day on July 1, 2023.
MC Sia Nyorkor with Ethiopian coffee
Audience members came from a variety of African countries including Liberia, Ghana, Congo, Tanzania, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Uganda, Egypt, Senegal, South Africa and Zambia. One attendee from Pretoria, South Africa said, "This is the first time I've felt like home since I came to Cleveland."
There was delicious West African food, an Ethiopian coffee ceremony, drummers, dancers and fun for families.
Unveiling of Ohio Historical Marker - Civil Rights Trail
During the celebration of Juneteenth in the African American Cultural Garden there was an historic unveiling and dedication of an Ohio Historical Marker along the Cleveland Civil Rights Trail.
The City of South Euclid and Garfield Memorial Church hosted their 3rd annual Juneteenth Freedom Day Celebration on Sunday June 18, 2023. There were speeches, resource tables, food, games, family fun and more.
Ubuntu Gathering Space at East End Neighborhood House
The Ubuntu Gathering Place was officially opened on Friday June 16, 2023 as part of the East End Neighborhood House at the corner of East 103rd and Shaker in Cleveland.
East End Neighborhood House provides services to Cleveland's Buckeye-Woodhill Neighborhood. Youth, families, seniors, and individuals can access resources for basic needs, culturally competent wraparound services, leadership development opportunities, and community engagement activities where neighborhood voices are valued!
Zulma Zabala served as CEO of East End Neighborhood House for many years and was the visionary behind this space which operates under the philosophy of Ubuntu. One translation of the African Bantu word "Ubuntu" is "I am because we are."
We love this mural of 3 Hall of Famers at Progressive Field.
Satchel Paige, Larry Doby and Frank Robinson
Satchel Paige made his debut for the Cleveland Indians at age 42 in 1948. Paige was the first black pitcher to play in the American League and was the seventh black player to play in Major League Baseball.
Larry Doby was the second black player to break baseball's color barrier and the first black player in the American League. He endured as much as Jackie Robinson who broke the color barrier 3 months earlier but he was younger at age 23. Doby was the first player to go directly to the majors from the Negro leagues.
Frank Robinson is known mostly as a Red and Oriole but he became the first Black manager in big league history, as the Cleveland Indians' player-manager in 1975.
I was there at opening day when Robinson, hitting second as the new player-manager, crushed a first-inning pitch from Doc Medich for a home run to power the Indians past the New York Yankees, 5-3. The stadium erupted. You can't write stories like that.
Black History Month Flag Raising Celebration
For 50 years the City of Cleveland has celebrated Black History Month with a Flag Raising Celebration.
African Flag over Cleveland City Hall
Despite brutally cold temperatures the crowd marched outside singing and chanting "Ashay". Joining in were Mayor Justin Bibb, Community Relations leader Angela Shute-Woodson and Khalid Samad from Peace in the Hood. After witnessing the flag raised above Cleveland City Hall the crowd went back inside for the rest of the program which included music, speeches, poems, food, community resources and more.
Khalid Samad speaks at Flag Raising
Mayor Justin Bibb with Buffalo Soldiers MC members
Glenville High School Championship Parade in Cleveland
The Tarblooders of Cleveland's Glenville High School made history with a 26-6 victory over Cincinnati Wyoming in the OHSAA division four State Championship game. With the win, Glenville became the first Cleveland Public School to win a state title in the playoff era. Congratulations to coach Ted Ginn Senior and his Glenville Tarblooders. This is a video of part of the motorcade parade from Glenville High School to Cleveland Public Hall to celebrate the championship. It begins with the excited remarks of a Glenville alumna. It includes the fantastic banner strewn from the raised ladders of 2 firetrucks from Fire Station 30 at 103rd and St. Clair.
Fun with Maps - the Underground Railroad
In this episode of Fun with Maps host Dan Hanson looks at a very special map - a map that wasn't recorded because it was dangerous to do so. It's the map of the Underground Railroad. The Underground Railroad was a network of secret routes and safe houses established in the United States during the early 1800s to help slaves escape into free states and Canada. It was run by abolitionists and others sympathetic to the cause of the escapees. Ohio had many stops on the Underground Railroad. Canada was an ultimate destination since they had abolished slavery in 1793. The short distance across Lake Erie from Cleveland to Canada made the city a popular destination. Cleveland was codenamed Hope on the Underground Railroad and the ultimate destination was Port Stanley in Ontario Canada which was codenamed Praise the Lord.
We recorded this episode at the Cozad-Bates House at the corner of Mayfield and East 115th Street in University Circle (just north of the Little Italy Neighborhood) in Cleveland. It is the only surviving pre-Civil War building in University Circle. The house has been restored by a non-profit called Restore Cleveland Hope and we spoke with board members and docents Kevin Cronin and Kathryn Puckett to examine the maps. We began with a map of Cleveland Ohio in 1957 and then widened to a map of the Western Reserve which shows how close (50 miles!) Canada is to Cleveland. Then we looked at Underground Railroad maps in Ohio. Experts say there were more routes to Canada through Ohio than anywhere else. This included the town near Cincinnati which was the setting for the book which influenced Abraham Lincoln, Uncle Tom's Cabin.
We looked at St. John's Church, still in existence at West 28th and Church in Cleveland. This Church has been documented as a site that house slaves on the Underground Railroad. We heard about John Brown the black barber who operated on Cleveland's Public Square. And Kathryn reminded us that where her family came from in Oklahoma was very different than in Ohio because Ohio was a free state and Oklahoma wasn't a state until 1907. Finally we see how the geography played a role. The slightly elevated terrain let people spot slave catchers and the location on Doan Brook which emptied into Lake Erie was ideal for escaping.
Underground Railroad in Cleveland - The Cozad Bates House
Ohio had many stops on the Underground Railroad. Canada was an ultimate destination since they had abolished slavery in 1793. The short distance across Lake Erie from Cleveland to Canada made the city a popular destination. Cleveland was codenamed Hope on the Underground Railroad.
Fugitive Slaves sign at Cozad Bates House
One of the historic places was at what is called the Cozad-Bates House at the corner of Mayfield and East 115th Street, between Euclid and Little Italy. The address is 11508 Mayfield Road, Cleveland, OH 44106.
Sara Lucy Bagby, the last person returned to slavery
Sara Lucy Bagby was born in the early 1840s in Virginia. On October 3, 1860 Bagby fled from slavery in Wheeling. She eventually escaped slavery via the Underground Railroad and made her way to Cleveland, Ohio.
Her arrest in Cleveland on January 19, 1861 became a test case of the Fugitive Slave Act.
Wheeling resident John Goshorn and his son showed proof of ownership, and the federal court ordered her return to Virginia. Sara Lucy Bagby was the last person in the United States forced to return to slavery in the South under the Fugitive Slave Act.
The Cleveland Plain Dealer and Democrat Party of the US were both pro-slavery so despite the state government's and citizens of Cleveland's attempts to intervene, Lucy was transported back to Goshorn's property in Wheeling, then still part of Virginia.
Oberlin is about 30 miles SW of Cleveland. John Price was an escaped slave who was arrested in Oberlin, Ohio under the Fugitive Slave Law of 1850. The local community was full of abolitionists so the U.S. marshal took him to the first train stop out of Oberlin heading south, Wellington ,which is about 45 miles from Cleveland. A group of men, both white and black and many from Oberlin, swarmed the hotel to rescue runaway slave John Price.
Oberlin Wellington Rescuers
The group returned Price to Oberlin where they hid him in the home of James Harris Fairchild, a future president of Oberlin College. The events and trial received national attention, and kept the issue of slavery at the forefront of debate.
The Cleveland African American community demonstrated their proud heritage with a very large group of people at One World Day in the Cleveland Cultural Gardens. One World Day has been the official event of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation since 1946. Over 40,000 people visited the gardens on One World Day 2022.
A highlight of the African American Cultural Garden unit in the Parade of Flags was the Warrensville Hts Marching Band.
Warrensville Hts Marching Band in Parade of Flags
After the Parade, large crowds gathered in the African American Cultural Garden to share their culture and heritage.
We are sorry to hear of the passing of Cleveland DJ and community activist Silver B - Bill Richards. We had some great conversations at Councilman Jeff Johnson's Glenville Festival, Juneteenth in the African American Cultural Garden and more. A true member of the community and in the Mix, mix, mix, mix.
Valarie McCall inducted into Cleveland International Hall of Fame
Since 2010, the Cleveland International Hall of Fame (CIHF) has inducted people who have made significant and lasting contributions to our multicultural society. Cleveland is home to people representing about 120 different ethnic groups. The CIHF exists not only to honor those special people but also to inspire a new generation of leaders to follow in their footsteps.
Over 150 worthy candidates were nominated for both the 2020 and 2022 Classes of the Cleveland International Hall of Fame. The selection committee was advised by previously inducted members of the Cleveland International Hall of Fame.
Covid-19 forced the always sold out induction ceremonies to be cancelled in 2020 and 2021. We tried to induct the 2020 class virtually but it was not the same. So once we were able to gather together again, we included the 2020 class in the induction ceremony for the 2022 class on June 7, 2022. The event at Windows on the River was a sell out and the 2020 class finally got their moment in the spotlight.
On the evening of June 7, 2022 Valarie McCall was finally honored in person and was inducted by Albert Ratner.
Juneteenth in the African American Cultural Garden
The annual Juneteenth celebration in the African American Cultural Garden included music, drummers, storyellers, food, resources and remarks from Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb and others.
When we think about the Underground Railroad the first name that comes to most of us is Harriet Tubman. While Tubman was exceptionally heroic, many other women played keys rolls in the efforts to help freedom seekers reach safety. In NE Ohio we have learned the names of men who were property owners, businessmen, judges, lawyers and were activists in the abolitionist movement.
Most of them had wives and daughters, sisters and mothers all of whom must have been involved in UGRR efforts.
In what is now University Circle and East Cleveland families named Cozad, Ford and McIlrath owned and farmed great swaths of land, operated a gristmill, owned a brickyard and ran a tavern. We know that many freedom seekers sought food and shelter in what was then rural sparsely populated farmland, as they headed to freedom across Lake Erie.
In the 19th century women could not own land or vote. They lived in the legal shadow of their husbands and their lives were played out in private. But the role women played in each household was essential not only for the survival of each family but also for the secret activities of the UGRR.
Restore Cleveland Hope’s historian and Board member, Wrean Fiebig, in her tireless research has recovered the names of the women in these families who most certainly played a vital role in the UGRR. Volunteers from Restore Cleveland Hope will guide you through time and answer your questions. It is open to the public every Saturday from Noon-4 PM. No Charge, No tickets. Just come and learn about this important time in Cleveland’s history. Come in through the back door and be sure to explore the historic markers in the newly landscaped grounds around the house. More information.
Underground Railroad at the Cozad Bates House
Cleveland's code name on the Underground Railroad was "Hope," while Port Stanley, Canada was called "Praise the Lord." While the distance from Hope to Praise the Lord was short, it was dangerous, with slave catchers on both land and Lake Erie. The Fords and Cozads were violating fugitive slave laws and risked severe penalty to help those fleeing, who risked everything.
The House enjoyed a terrific 2021, with a vibrant opening, steady attendance and a performance by members of the Cleveland Orchestra.
Cleveland's African American community took part in the 75th One World Day in the Cleveland Cultural Gardens on August 29, 2021. They marched in the Parade of Flags and hosted visitors in their beautiful African American Cultural Garden.
The Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation hosted the 74th annual One World Day on August 25, 2019. Police estimates say that over 30,000 people visited the Gardens and attended One World Day. There was a lot of activity in the beautiful and historic African American Cultural Garden.
A highlight of One World Day is the Parade of Flags where people in costumes of their heritage carry the flags. This year was undoubtedly the largest and most colorful in memory.
African American Cultural Garden in Parade of Flags
Negro Baseball Leagues Exhibit at Cleveland All-Star Game
Major League Baseball presented Play Ball Park at the 2019 All-Star Game in Cleveland. Here is a look at an exhibit showcasing the Negro Leagues and the history of African-American players way before Jackie Robinson and Larry Doby.
Larry Doby All-Star Playground Dedication
Originally constructed 22 years ago during the inaugural year of the Major League Baseball All-Star Legacy effort during the 1997 All-Star Week in Cleveland, the Larry Doby All-Star Playground has been renovated to include updated equipment and refurbished flooring. Members of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Cleveland - King Kennedy Club and youth in the nearby community will be able to use the Playground as a daily recreational outlet. The ribbon cutting took place with Larry Doby Jr. and Cleveland Indians owner Paul Dolan among others in attendance.
Mayor Jackson, Larry Doby Jr., Phyllis Cleveland and Senator Sherrod Brown
Ohio Supreme Court Justice Melody J. Stewart EWAW Keynote
Elite Women Around The World® is a global network of individuals, leaders, organizations and businesses coming together with a shared mission of enhancing the economic position of women globally. EWAW celebrated a Glass-Ceiling Shattering Night for Women on Women's International Day March 8, 2019. The keynote address was given by Justice Melody J. Stewart who is the first African-American woman elected to the Ohio Supreme Court.
Justice Stewart was elected in November 2018 to a full term as the 161st Justice to serve on the Court. Highlights of her swearing in ceremony were shown first.
2018
African-American Garden at International Cleveland Community Day at the Cleveland Museum of Art
International Cleveland Community Day at the Cleveland Museum of Art is a celebration of the rich diversity of our region's multiethnic communities, featuring traditional music and dance performances, cultural displays, and ingallery experiences. The African-American Garden was represented with a banner and an information table.
Denise Ward working the African American Garden table at Cleveland Museum of Art
African American Garden banner at Cleveland Museum of Art
Rainey Institute Youth Orchestra at Cleveland Art Museum
The El Sistema@Rainey program provides daily orchestra classes at Rainey Institute to Cleveland children in grades 2-8. Students may study violin, viola, cello or string bass. Click the white arrow to watch the short selections on this video.
Mama Fasi's Girls and Grandmas Drum Ensemble at the Cleveland Museum of Art
Mama Fasi's Girls and Grandmas Drum Ensemble performed at the annual International Cleveland Community Day in the Cleveland Museum of Art. Mama Fasi invited audience members up to play drums and dance.
The Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation (CCGF) hosted the 73rd annual One World Day on September 16, 2018. A highlight is the Parade of Flags where people in costumes of their heritage carry the flags. The African-American Garden was well-represented in the Parade.
YLDay of Caring - Hebrew and African American Cultural Gardens
It's amazing what we can do when we work together! On July 12, 2018, 30 Young Leadership Division (YLD) volunteers came together with volunteers of all ages in the African American community to help landscape, plant flowers, and clean up the Hebrew and Association of African American Cultural Gardens at the most recent YLDay of Caring. Through this special event - one of the first collaborative efforts between the different Cleveland Cultural Gardens - they learned more about the gardens' history and had a chance to engage in a meaningful dialogue.
African American Cultural Garden leader Carl Ewing with Jewish YLD volunteers
Charlie Sifford, the Jackie Robinson of Golf
Before there was Tiger Woods, there was Charlie Sifford
Some people have earned well-deserved recognition for their efforts to right injustices that they experience or see. Everyone knows of Jackie Robinson, for example, but fewer know of Larry Doby who endured much of the treatment that Jackie Robinson did and at a younger age. Charlie Sifford was a pioneer like Robinson and Doby yet received scant recognition. Here is part of his story from Charlie's interviews with Debbie Hanson in 2005. Charlie Sifford passed away in 2015 but his story lives on to inspire others.
Rainey Institute and Cleveland Inner City Ballet at the Cleveland Museum of Art
The 2017 International Cleveland Community Day at the Cleveland Museum of Art had dozens of performances and community resources in the Atrium of the Museum. This included students from the Rainey Institute and Cleveland Inner City Ballet.
The annual Glenville Parade took place on Saturday August 12, 2017 to kick off the Glenville Community Festival. The annual Glenville Parade and Festival is led by Cleveland Councilman Jeff Johnson.
Umoja is the Swahili word for "unity". On Saturday June 3, 2017 the 7th annual Umoja Parade and Festival was held in downtown Cleveland stepping off at East 13th and Superior and ending up at Voinovich Park.
Juneteenth and African American Cultural Garden Ribbon Cutting
June 18, 2016
The annual Juneteenth celebration was held in the African American Cultural Garden in Cleveland on June 18, 2016. The event was special because it included the ribbon-cutting and dedication of Phase 1 of the African American Cultural Garden.
Mayor Frank Jackson at Phase 1 of the African American Garden
The Committee on Arrangements; Ohio Republican Party, Republican Party of Cuyahoga County, Sara J. Harper Leadership Institute, I Group, The Committee of 40, Lauren A. Gore, esq., WEA, Inc., LA Gore & Principals and the Inner City Republican Movement hosted a Community Black History Celebration honoring the Life & Achievement of Judge Sara J. Harper. Her illustrious career spans the decades, as one who has toppled barriers, and made history.
Cleveland City Hall Rotunda - February 6, 2016
Members of the Underground Railroad Society, Coalition for a Better Life, dba Peace in the Hood and other community organizations gathered at the Rotunda of Cleveland City Hall for the 42nd annual Black History Month Flag Raising Ceremony.
The American Nationalities Movement of Ohio (ANM) celebrated their 51st annual Christmas Luncheon and Freedom Award recognitions on December 19, 2015.
Lia Staaf, Gary Kotlarsic, Jane B. Sheats and the band Harmonia were honored.
Jane B. Sheats is a lifelong Glenville resident and in 1976 became the first African American woman in the United States to chair a county board of elections.
Judge Ralph Perk, Jane B. Sheats and Judge Ray Pianka
The Rainey Institute String Orchestra played at the Cleveland Museum of Art's International Cleveland Community Day in the Atrium of the museum on October 4, 2015.
Born on February 23, 1925 in Cleveland Ohio, Louis Stokes is one of two very famous children born to Charles and Louise Stokes. The other, of course, is his younger brother Carl, the one time Mayor of Cleveland.
Central State University Charleston Heritage Blazing Steel Band
The Central State University Charleston Heritage Blazing Steel Band performed at the 38th annual Glenville Community Festival and Parade. After the parade, they put on this performance at the Festival.
The African-American Cultural Garden in Cleveland opened their new office on Central at East 79th by hosting a celebration of Juneteenth. Juneteenth, also known as Juneteenth Independence Day or Freedom Day is a holiday that commemorates the announcement of the abolition of slavery in the U.S. state of Texas in June 1865, and more generally the emancipation of African-American slaves throughout the Confederate South.
Karamu actor Stephen D. Hood as Dr. George Washington Carver
Umoja is the Swahili word for "unity". On Saturday June 6, 2015 the 5th annual Umoja Parade and Festival was held in downtown Cleveland.
See photo and video highlights from the Umoja Parade including Buffalo Soldiers, Tuskegee Airmen, Shaw High School Marching Band and the African-American Cultural Garden.
Khamia, A'Shontay and Talia (K.A.T.) sang the Michelle Williams song 'When Jesus say yes, nobody can say no' just before the 2015 Cleveland African-American Umoja Parade.
The African American Cultural Garden is part of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation (CCGF). The CCGF is the group of dedicated volunteers who clean up the Gardens, plant flowers, shrubs and trees and raise money for statues and monuments. There are almost 30 gardens in the CCGF chain along East and MLK Boulevards in Cleveland.
For over 30 years there was a plot reserved for the African American Cultural Garden on MLK Blvd. There was a sign and some events were held there but progress was slow. Now, Phase 1 of the Garden has begun. This was celebrated with a groundbreaking ceremony in the African American Cultural Garden on Monday May 11, 2015.
Mayor Jackson with the African American Cultural Garden group
Members of the Underground Railroad Society, Coalition for a Better Life, dba Peace in the Hood and other community organizations marched outside of the Rotunda of Cleveland City Hall to see the African-American flag raised over Cleveland City Hall. This was the 41st annual Black History Month Flag Raising Ceremony at Cleveland City Hall.
City of Cleveland Black History Month Opening Ceremony
The City of Cleveland’s 2015 Black History Month celebration kicked-off Monday, February 2, 2015. This year’s theme “Cleveland’s Future: We are in Good Hands,” was chosen to highlight, share and learn about the many endeavors, accomplishments and future plans of our African American community.
The Hue People performed an a cappella version of Lift Every Voice and Sing, the Black National Anthem, at a celebration of Black History Month at Cleveland City Hall on February 7, 2015.
Cleveland Clinic MLK Day of Celebration
The annual Cleveland Clinic MLK Day of Celebration took place at the Cleveland Convention Center on January 16, 2015. Cleveland Clinic President and CEO Delos 'Toby' Cosgrove, MD presented the Lifetime of Service Award to the Honorable Louis Stokes, US House of Representatives (retired). The keynote speaker was Ursula M. Burns, Chairman and CEO of Xerox Corporation.
Cleveland Clinic MLK Day Interfaith Community Service
The annual Cleveland Clinic MLK Day of Celebration took place at the Cleveland Convention Center on January 16, 2015. It began with an Interfaith Community Service.
A Cleveland, Ohio native and 1999 John Hay High School graduate, is serving in the U.S. Navy as part of a hand-picked crew charged with bringing the Navy's newest aircraft carrier into service.
Petty Officer Second Class Dameon Smith is a legalman aboard Pre-Commissioning Unit Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), the first ship in its class and the successor to the Navy's Nimitz-class aircraft carriers that have been in operation for the last half century.
Smith and the rest of the 1000-Sailor crew are slowly bringing the ship to life, a crew that will eventually grow to more than 4,500 when the ship is at sea. When complete, the aircraft carrier, powered by two nuclear reactors, will measure more than three football fields long at 1,092 feet in length and will weigh more than 100,000 tons. It will be capable of sailing at nearly 35 mph and will carry more than 75 Navy aircraft.
"Petty Officer Smith plays a vital role in preparing our Nation's newest and most technologically advanced warship for sea,"¯ said Ford's Commanding Officer, Capt. John F. Meier. "We have the opportunity to build this command with the ideals of our namesake and we are creating the command climate and a culture of excellence that we have always wanted. This crew is setting that standard, a standard that will last for the 50-plus year life of the ship."
¯As one of the sailors who will commission the ship, Smith, who enlisted 11 years ago, has the opportunity to see firsthand the innovations being incorporated into the design of the ship; from a redesigned flight deck to allow for more efficient aircraft operations to equipment that requires less maintenance.
As the crew grows and works toward the goal of joining the fleet in 2016, Smith and other Gerald R. Ford sailors will be will be accepting spaces on the ship, training to operate it and building a legacy that will last beyond their lifetimes.
Training for the crew has to come from some unique sources. There are no Navy schools for some of the new equipment, so the crew is partnering with Huntington Ingalls Newport News Shipbuilding and other vendors to master the new systems.
"This is a unique opportunity to see first-hand how the systems are installed and tested, which is an advantage that future crews won't have an opportunity to experience,"¯ said Meier. "Petty Officer Smith and his shipmates are becoming the subject matter experts. They are working hand in hand with the Shipyard throughout the testing phase and in turn teaching the Navy how to operate this new class of aircraft carriers."¯
Smith said it is an exciting time to be in the Navy, helping to build a crew and a ship from scratch, something he never expected to be doing just a couple years ago. He also said he is proud of the work he is doing to help commission and man the Navy's newest aircraft carrier.
As a 33-year-old with numerous responsibilities, Smith said he is learning about himself as a leader, sailor and a person. "I've learned to take advice from the leadership from my throughout my career and apply it to my everyday life,"¯ said Smith. "I take the things I've been told in the past and apply it to my life to accomplish my goals, which makes me a better person."
Smith adds he is ready to accept the sacrifices the Navy and his country are asking him to make. This humbling reward is being a part of something much bigger than he ever expected.
Like the Nimitz-class aircraft carriers that came before it, USS Gerald R. Ford's mission is to protect and defend America on the world's oceans. When the ship deploys it will bring four-and-a-half acres of survivable, sovereign U.S. territory, increasing the Navy's strike capability and defending the country's interests in any region of the world.
The ship is scheduled to commission in spring 2016.
Petty Officer Second Class Dameon Smith is a legalman aboard Pre-Commissioning Unit Gerald R. Ford.
Glenville Parade Highlights - Cleveland 2014
Highlights of the 2014 Glenville Parade in Cleveland Ohio. The Parade stepped off at East 105th and Superior and travelled down 105 to St Clair and then turned left to Sam Miller Park. Lots of politicians in the parade but none in this highlight video.
Members of the Collinwood High School Railroaders Blue Steel Marching Band warm up before the Glenville Parade in Cleveland Ohio.
Cleveland Peace Camp end of camp Celebration of Peace
Coalition for a Better Life, dba Peace in the Hood, is dedicated to Peace, Justice and Empowerment. Peace In The Hood is a youth violence, prevention, intervention and educational program that promotes personal responsibility, empowerment and self-sufficiency.
Peace Camp is an annual summer program that brings youth together to learn to focus on what they have in common-not their differences. They have come to learn their culture, their history, nonviolent crisis intervention and mediation and to be part of the solution instead of part of the problem. The end of camp celebration took place on July 31, 2014 at 13512 Kinsman Road in Cleveland.
The Cleveland African-American Heritage Umoja Parade took place on May 31, 2014. Umoja is the Swahili word for Unity. The parade went down Superior to East Ninth and then down the hill to the Festival in Voinovich Park. The parade included Tuskegee Airmen, Buffalo Soldiers and more.
Black History Month Flag Raising Ceremony at Cleveland City Hall
Members of the Underground Railroad Society, Coalition for a Better Life, dba Peace in the Hood and other community organizations marched outside of the Rotunda of Cleveland City Hall to see the African-American flag raised over Cleveland City Hall. This was the 40th annual Black History Month Flag Raising Ceremony at Cleveland City Hall.
The 4th annual Holiday Celebration of Cleveland's Diversity was held at the Ariel International Center in Cleveland on December 4, 2013. The event was put on by Worldwide Intercultural Network (WIN) Northeast Ohio in conjunction with the office of Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson.
Performances included a Motown Revue, Hand Drumming and various dances (Shim Sham, Shuffle off to Buffalo, etc.)
Members of the Shaw High School Marching Band from East Cleveland, Ohio played Dixieland music as they paraded with giant colorful puppets throughout the Atrium of the Cleveland Museum of Art at International Cleveland Community Day on October 10, 2013. The act is called Progeny.
One World Day hosted by African-American Garden
The African-American Cultural Garden was the host garden for the 2013 One World Day festival.
Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson spoke at the annual One World Day festival in the African-American Garden which is part of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens chain in Cleveland Ohio. He told how Cleveland's ethnic diversity makes it a great city.
Sheila Murphy Crawford, president of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens Federation, introduced the Shaw High School Marching Band who performed the national anthem at the annual One World Day festival in the African-American Garden.
Students from Michael R. White Elementary School in Cleveland led the new citizens in the Pledge of Allegiance at the Naturalization Ceremony at the annual One World Day.
2013 Glenville Parade
Ward 8 Councilman Jeffrey Johnson, Parade organizer Wendy McDonald Hunter and the Glenville Community Foundation hosted the annual (now in it's 36th year) Glenville Community Parade & Festival.
The annual Glenville Parade kicked off at East 105th and Superior and marched down 105 to St Clair where it continued down to Sam Miller Park for a Festival at 88th and St Clair.
Sankofa Fine Art Plus commissioned nationally renowned muralist Kent Twitchell to work with select local artists and community members to honor one of Karamu House's most successful alums, Ruby Dee. The mural was officially unveiled in a ceremony on July 26, 2013.
Besdies speeches and presentations, the event featured some terrific performances by 2 young students and Prester Picket from CSU.
Student performers Devores Denson and Demetria McCullogh
Posing in front of the new Ruby Dee mural at Karamu House
The violence in our cities has become a routine part of the daily news. Peace in the Hood is focusing on solutions. For 6 weeks, 40 youth of all ages, from all areas of Cleveland, from public, private and charter schools and all social economic levels have come together to learn to focus on what they have in common-not their differences. They have come to learn their culture, their history, nonviolent crisis intervention and mediation and to be part of the solution instead of part of the problem.
Sankofa Fine Art Plus has commissioned nationally renowned muralist Kent Twitchell to work with select local artists and community members to honor one of Karamu House's most successful alumnus, Ruby Dee. The mural will be 40-by-36-feet.
African-American Cultural Garden Juneteenth Preview
In this short video clip, Carl Ewing, gives a preview of the Juneteenth celebration in the African American Cultural Garden.
Cleveland African-American Heritage Umoja Parade
The Cleveland African-American heritage Umoja Parade took place on June 8, 2013. Umoja is the Swahili word for Unity.
The parade went down Superior to East Ninth and then down the hill to the Festival in Voinovich Park. The parade included Tuskegee Airmen, Buffalo Soldiers, the Shaw High School Marching Band and more.
Colonel Charles Young was a Buffalo Soldier and was the third African American graduate of West Point, the first black U.S. national park superintendent, first black military attaché, first black to achieve the rank of colonel, and highest-ranking black officer in the United States Army until his death in 1922. There is a monument to Colonel Young at East 46th and Prospect in Cleveland.
The Trust for Public Land, a national conservation organization who works to protect land for people, worked with the National Park Service to create the Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument in Ohio. It is not yet open to the public, however they will be hosting a day on the land there on Thursday, June 13, 2013 where there will be interpretive tours.
The Cleveland office of The Trust for Public Land said, "The event is free - and quite a long drive from Cleveland - but I wanted to extend an invite to anyone who wishes to attend."
Welcome to Shelbyville
Author, entrepreneur and activist Mansfield Frazier spoke on a panel after viewing the film Welcome to Shelbyville at a Welcoming America reception at MetroHealth Hospital in Cleveland.
He said that many in the African-American community feel that they were not helped but that people are offering help to immigrants.
Cleveland Marathon
Congratulations to the African-American Cultural Garden who showed the most support of all the Gardens as the runners from the Cleveland Marathon passed through on Sunday. They won a $500 gift card from Petitti Garden Centers. Congratulations!
The Irish Cultural Garden came in second and won a $150 gift card from Petitti. What a beautiful venue for a race!
African-American Garden group at the Cleveland Marathon
Debbie Hanson of ClevelandPeople.Com presents a $500 Petitti gift card to Carl Ewing of the African-American Garden
Tuskegee Airman Thomas Austin - "We couldn't fail"
Thomas Austin was one of the Tuskegee Airmen. He was responsible for keeping the planes in the air.
The Tuskegee Airmen were the first African-American military aviators in the United States armed forces. They fought in fought in World War II and were the 332nd Fighter Group and the 477th Bombardment Group of the United States Army Air Corps.
Mr. Austin spoke, at 96 years old, at an event in Cleveland. He said "We couldn't fail because we had the Father directing us."
Two experienced leaders with hands-on experience spoke to a group of youths and community leaders at the City Club of Cleveland on April 24, 2013. The forum discussion was titled Street Violence: Guns, Gangs, and Guiding our Youth.
Everyday Heroes is an awards program created by Verizon to recognize modern day heroes who make a difference in their communities and who touch the lives of others.
6 outstanding Clevelanders were recognized at a special ceremony.
Everyday Heroes Hank Davis, Laura Cowan and Dan Davenport
Alpha Step Crew Black History Month Crowning Event ceremony
Rotunda of Cleveland City Hall February 28, 2013
The Alpha Step Crew, part of the Alpha ESQuires Club, a youth development program of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. Delta Alpha Lambda Chapter performed at the closing ceremony of Black History Month in City Hall. Photos and Videos.
Black History Month ended with 'The Crowning Event' ceremony in the City Hall Rotunda on February 28, 2013. The focus was on youth, education and mentoring. A keynote address was given by Margaret Bernstein, columnist at the Plain Dealer.
Director Blaine Griffin, Councilman Kevin Kelley, Margaret Bernstein and Mayor Frank Jackson
Members of the musical group Progeny from Shaw High School and Heritage Middle School paraded through the new Ames Family Atrium with the Quixote puppets from Parade the Circle.
Progeny Parade
African-American Cultural Garden table at the Atrium
Members of Peace in the Hood and other organizations gathered at City Hall for the ceremony.
In a play at a Republic Day of India celebration on January 22, 2011, Pastor Kenneth Knox portrayed Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in a play titled 'Mortal Men & Women and their Immortal Words'
The entire play was very well done and included portrayals of Abraham Lincoln, Mahtama Gandhi, Mother Teresa and others.
Here is the performance as Pastor Knox recreates the "I Have a Dream" speech.
Tell us about the music, food, holidays, traditions, costumes, language and other qualities that make African-Americans so special.
Colonel Charles Young was a Buffalo Soldier and was the third African American graduate of West Point, the first black U.S. national park superintendent, first black military attaché, first black to achieve the rank of colonel, and highest-ranking black officer in the United States Army until his death in 1922. There is a monument to Colonel Young at East 46th and Prospect in Cleveland.
Hashim El Raman plays Mbira music at a Cleveland Ohio festival in June 2009. The mbira is the national instrument of Zimbabwe and has been played by the Shona people for thousands of years. It is also called the thumb piano.
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