By Andrew Hall
AFRO Intern
ahall@afro.com
Thousands flocked to Day Three of the AFRAM Festival’s 50th celebration on June 21, concluding a banner weekend of cultural pride, economic opportunity and community connection.
Reflecting on AFRAM weekend, Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott explained what he loves most about the festival.
“What I love about AFRAM the most is the beautiful Black excellence that is … everywhere,” said Scott. “There is nothing better than Black excellence in Black Baltimore on Juneteenth and Father’s Day weekend.”
“What I love about AFRAM the most is the beautiful Black excellence that is surrounded everywhere. There is nothing better than Black excellence in Black Baltimore on Juneteenth and Father’s Day weekend.” — Brandon M. Scott
Jeremiah Anderson, who has been attending the festival for 20 years, reiterated Scott’s thoughts.
“AFRAM has a lot to do with the culture, and it lined up really well with the Juneteenth holiday,” Anderson said. “I keep coming back because of the food, the good music and the healthy environment.”
Ahead of the festival’s last day, Mayor Scott and the Baltimore Police Department announced age restrictions after fighting broke out among dozens of teenagers, resulting in assaults on two police officers on Saturday night.
“For the remainder of the festival, all persons under the age of 18 attending AFRAM 50 in Druid Hill Park will need to be accompanied by a parent, guardian or a responsible adult at all times. All parents and guardians are asked to adhere to these requirements to ensure minors are properly supervised throughout the event,” the statement read.
Despite the restriction, Kimora Bradsher, a 17-year-old experiencing her first AFRAM, still enjoyed herself.
“I saw how fun it was for everyone last year, which made me want to come,” Bradsher said. “I enjoy music and events in general, so being outside in this type of environment is right up my alley. I like the fact that everyone is coming together, with food and music.”
Kennedi Green, who served as a guardian for her younger cousins, explained her stance on the age restriction rules.
“I think it’s a good idea. When you have an event bringing the community together, you want people to be safe,” Green said. “Being able to bring them out and know they’re protected, it made me feel good.”
Day Three’s performers included Charlie Wilson, Tamia, Dru Hill, PJ Morton and the Fearless Dance Empire. Festivalgoers were also treated to the AFRAM 50 Fashion Show, Barbershop Conversation, Bishop Showell tribute, and an hour of power.
Kathy McBride, who attends AFRAM every year, explained the festival’s importance.
“It’s something that we can always do to come together as a big family, have some fun and bring different cultures together as one,” McBride told the AFRO.
Vendors, too, enjoyed a weekend of good business, great conversations and lasting connections. Regina Ray, a book seller from Washington, D.C., explained her AFRAM experience.
“I saw AFRAM on the internet and was interested. I don’t get up to Baltimore often since I’m from Washington, D.C., but I came yesterday and it just blew my mind, so I came back today,” Ray said. “I’ve had great sales, lots of good, interesting conversations, and everyone’s having a great time. The best part is the people–especially the young people. Seeing them out and enjoying themselves is so cool.”
Kiara Coleman, owner of Peace and Currency Print Shop, detailed AFRAM from her perspective.
“It’s been a good experience; it’s been busy. I’m tired because we’ve been out here all three days, but it’s been a great experience overall,” said Coleman. “This was my first time vending at AFRAM and if they invite me back, I’ll be here next year.”
Tre Harbin was one of a few ambassadors from Collegiate Lux attending AFRAM on Day Three. Harbin spoke to the AFRO on why his family-owned, Black-owned business participated in the festival.
“It’s important for us to be out here at AFRAM because we love the support and want to show love to our Black community,” Harbin says. “We’ve been doing it for multiple years, sponsoring, giving back, showing love to the community and appreciating the love we get back in return.”
