The Black Aura: A Weekend of Liberation & the Arts June 28th-29th

Positioned between Juneteenth and Independence Day, The Kehrein Center for the Arts Foundation is thrilled to present “The Black Aura: A Weekend of Liberation & the Arts” on Friday, June 28, and Saturday, 29, 2024, at 5628 W. Washington Blvd., Chicago, IL.  This weekend will emphasize Black liberation through immersive experiences. Highlights include a film screening of Juneteenth: Faith & Freedom accompanied by a dynamic panel discussion featuring Dallas Fort Worth, Texas native Afton Battle (V.P. of Lyric Unlimited and Artistic Operations), Jarred Howard (C.E.O., The National Juneteenth Museum) and Opal Lee (Mother of the National Juneteenth Holiday). Friday evening will also feature a concert of Great Black Music curated by Battle.

The weekend concludes with The Black Aura Awards Celebration Gala. Awardees include Linda Francis for her efforts to connect the neighboring communities of Oak Park and Austin, Aisha Oliver of Roots to Fruit for serving and developing youth on the West Side, Congressman Danny K. Davis for his tenured and tireless support of the West Side, and Anjanette Young for embodying a multi-faceted passion for this city’s transformation and healing. The gala will also feature a liberation concert with performances by LaRob K. Rafael of Ear Taxi and Hearing in Color, Jasmine Barnes, Deborah D.E.E.P. of Mouton, award-winning string ensemble D-Composed, and Chicago Poet Laureate avery r. young and the deacon board, and other local artists.