Entertainment
CNN to broadcast live Juneteenth concert featuring Jhené Aiko, Questlove, Mickey Guyton and other Black artists
The “Juneteenth: A World Celebration for Freedom,” produced by Black creators Shawn Gee of Reside Nation City and Jesse Collins Leisure, will have fun the 157th anniversary of Juneteenth and spotlight the continuing combat for equality within the Black group.
Live performance performers will embrace Yolanda Adams, Anthony Hamilton, Billy Porter, Debbie Allen Dance Academy, Earth, Wind & Fireplace, Jhené Aiko, Killer Mike, Fortunate Daye, Mary Mary, Michelle Williams, Mickey Guyton, Robert Glasper, and The Roots. The Re-Collective Orchestra, a 68-piece all-Black symphony orchestra, may even carry out.
CNN anchor Don Lemon will kick off dwell protection of the occasion and honor Black advocates and trailblazers who’re on the entrance strains of the combat for equality.
Whereas commemorating Juneteenth, it is necessary to acknowledge that Black Individuals nonetheless face racism, stated Johnita Due, senior vp and chief range, fairness and inclusion officer for CNN.
“We knew it was necessary to our nation and necessary to our audiences to make clear the that means and significance of Juneteenth,” Due stated. “And never solely as an historic occasion however actually as a method to have interaction and educate individuals about what nonetheless must occur for all of us to realize freedom and justice.”
Due stated organizers have been intent on showcasing Black excellence and together with a multigenerational checklist of performers who would have the ability to display their lived Black experiences. The live performance may even honor earlier Juneteenth celebrations and construct upon the traditions to teach individuals all over the world concerning the significance of the vacation, Due stated.
Shawn Gee, president of Reside Nation City, stated the Juneteenth live performance would be the “most necessary occasion we have ever produced at Reside Nation City.”
“It is a second to have fun and mirror on Black independence and the Black expertise,” Gee stated. “It is also a second to boost consciousness and shine mild on the miles we nonetheless have to journey to true fairness. We hope to see you there.”