News Summary
Shreveport is set to host its 37th Annual African American Parade Celebration this Saturday, themed ‘African Americans and Labor.’ This vibrant event kicks off Black History Month and will feature over 150,000 expected attendees and four grand marshals, symbolizing community leadership. Joyful festivities will include colorful floats, music, and a display of rich cultural heritage, making it an event not to be missed. For those unable to attend, there will be live coverage of the parade.
Shreveport Gears Up for the 37th Annual African American Parade Celebration This Saturday
Get ready, Shreveport! The lively city is set to host its 37th Annual African American Parade Celebration this Saturday, and it promises to be an unforgettable experience. With an exciting theme of “African Americans and Labor,” this year’s parade is not only a display of culture and history but also a powerful reminder of the contributions of African Americans to the workforce.
Mark Your Calendars
This festive occasion marks the kickoff for the month-long celebration of Black History Month. Parades this time of year can be a fantastic way to honor the past while bringing communities together in celebration. Being recognized as the largest African American parade in the nation during February, this event draws thousands of spectators who come out to cheer and celebrate.
Join the Fun
Every year, more than a dozen states participate in making this event a community highlight, guaranteeing a diverse atmosphere filled with vibrant floats, colorful costumes, and a wave of music and excitement. Last year alone, the parade attracted over 150,000 people and boasted more than 8,000 participants, showcasing a blend of talent and spirit that is hard to match.
Who’s Joining Us?
This year is particularly special as it features not one but four grand marshals, all exceptional leaders in law enforcement. These esteemed individuals are:
- Caddo Parish Sheriff Henry Whitehorn
- Caddo Parish District Attorney James Stewart
- Shreveport Police Chief Wayne Smith
- Shreveport City Marshal James Jefferson
These grand marshals symbolize strong community leadership and the various pathways through which African Americans have impacted the landscape of labor and law enforcement.
The Parade Route
Excitement builds as the parade begins staging near the Municipal Auditorium. The fun officially kicks off at 11 a.m. when the parade crosses Common Street onto Milam Street. It will continue rolling east on Milam, taking a left at Market Street, another left at Texas Street, and finally ending back at Milam. It’s the perfect plan for families and friends who want to enjoy every moment of the festivities.
Tune In!
If you can’t make it in person, don’t worry! The parade will have live coverage starting at 11 a.m. so everyone can enjoy the rich culture and traditions that fill the air during this joyous celebration. Just check out the coverage on local platforms.
More Than Just a Parade
What began in 1988 with only 50 attendees has blossomed into a large-scale event thanks to the dedication of its founders, who began with a small committee. Now over seventy-five members strong, including a youth committee, the spirit of community involvement is electrifying. Over the years, the event has been celebrated with support from local dignitaries, earning proclamations and resolutions from various governmental offices for more than 30 years.
A Vibrant Celebration Awaits
Prepare to be amazed as high-stepping bands, cheerleaders, dance groups, ROTC units, sororities, and fraternities come together to spread cheer and throw candy and Mardi Gras beads along the route. It’s going to be a visual feast you won’t want to miss!
Don’t Miss Out
So mark your calendars, gather your family and friends, and get ready for a wonderful day filled with culture, colors, and community spirit. This weekend’s African American Parade Celebration is bound to be a heartwarming experience that showcases Shreveport’s rich cultural heritage. The magic is on its way – make sure you’re there to witness it! It’s an event that captures the essence of unity and celebration.
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Additional Resources
- African American Parade Celebration
- Wikipedia: African American History
- LSU Health Shreveport News
- Google Search: LSU Health Shreveport
- Rotel Fest in Shreveport
- Google Scholar: Rotel Fest
- Holiday Train in Shreveport
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Christmas
- Shooting in Shreveport
- Google News: Shreveport shooting
