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A FREE 2-day Chicago symposium celebrating Katherine Dunham & the Diaspora through a keynote address, performances, panels & workshops!!
Old Town School of Folk Music is hosting its 3rd annual Black History Future Folk Symposium. Produced by our Community Ventures Department, each year this symposium draws inspiration from the definition of folk music provided by Folk Alliance International: “Folk is the music of the people, reflective of any community where they are from.” The theme for 2026 is Katherine Dunham and the African Diaspora.
Focusing on the prolific Chicago legacy of Katherine Dunham, this free two-day Symposium will invite participants of all ages to participate in open, accessible, and rigorous discussions about the intersections of Black history, liberated futures, and folk practices. Through presentations, panel discussions, participatory workshops, and performances, 2026’s Symposium will cultivate fertile ground for deep theoretical and embodied understandings of afro-diasporic dance and music.
SCHEDULE
Friday, April 17, 2026 • 6:00 - 8:30 PM
📍 Old Town School Lincoln Square Campus – Myron R. Szold Concert Hall | 4545 N Lincoln Ave. Chicago, IL 60625
6:00–7:15 PM • Opening Keynote Speaker: Heather Beal
7:30–8:30 PM • Dunham from Haiti to New Orleans Opening Performance: Featuring Tamboula & the Windy City Ramblers with choreography by Stacy “Jukeboxx” Letrice & Daniel Desir
BUFI Bikes the Shore for UJIMA is an eight-mile, two-hour community bicycle ride is to symbolize economic unity.
BUFI Bikes the Shore for Ujima is an eight-mile, two-hour community bicycle ride to symbolize healthy awareness and action for ourselves and our community.
About this event:
In its efforts to build economic unity in the South Shore community, the Black United Fund of Illinois (BUFI) will be hosting its 8th Annual BUFI Bikes the Shore for Ujima on Saturday, September12th from 9am – 1pm at 1809 East 71st Street COURTYARD, Chicago Presented by The Black United Fund of Illinois, Equiticity, and Divvy.
The goal of BUFI Bikes the Shore for UJIMA eight-mile, two-hour community bicycle ride is to symbolize unity and commitment to health and healing within the South Shore community and Chicagoland areas. This is not simply a demonstration of unity; it is designed to inspire the community, while embracing the human spirit with empowerment and resources.
This ride also serves as the formal kick off for BUFI's workplace giving campaign, inspiring our communities to donate to BUFI via their payroll deductions. Federal employees should use code #37269. State, County, and City employees should use code #950-0010.
BUFI Bikes the Shore for UJIMA is for community members, advocates, activists, and bicycle enthusiasts. All are welcome to ride!
Among the activities will be a warm-up for cyclists, free refreshments, and information about BUFI’s workplace giving campaign as well as community resources information distribution. The eight-mile cooperative economics journey will conclude with a community call to action in the courtyard adjacent to BUFI’s headquarters, 1809 East 71st Street.
Bike the Shore for UJIMA is planned in partnership with the Black United Fund of Illinois, Equiticity and Divvy.
Masks and social distancing are encouraged and expected throughout this event for the comfort and safety of all. Those who are feeling ill or have any COVID-19 symptoms should stay home. We are stronger together (even when safely apart)!
For more information, email or call 773.324.0494.
Divvy Bikes will be provided to individuals 18+
Come celebrate Black Men's health and wellness with us in Chicago! It's the most fun you'll ever have at a doctor's appointment!
Black Men's Wellness Day isn’t just an event – it's a movement. It's about understanding the health disparities that exist, taking actionable steps towards better health, and celebrating the strength and resilience of our community. Whether you've been a part of our journey from the start or are just getting to know us, this day is for you.
What to Expect:
Free Health Screenings: Prioritize your health. From blood pressure checks to more comprehensive screenings, our team of healthcare professionals are here to make sure that this is the most fun that you will ever have at a doctor's appointment.
Kids Zone: A day for the entire family! There's something for everyone at the walk! Let your little ones engage in fun, interactive, and educational activities centered around health and wellness.
Senior Pavilion: It's critical to the mission of Black Men's Wellness Day to promote wellness for the entire Black community. That's why we have a special pavilion with activities just for our Golden citizens.
Entertainment: Celebrate with us! From live music to performances, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
This event is free and open to the public. Come, be a part of a day filled with knowledge, celebration, and unity.