NJPAC to Host Standing in Solidarity Event for Juneteenth with HBCU Focus

New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) will host an in-person Standing in Solidarity event on June 17, 2024, at 6PM in honor of the Juneteenth holiday. This program marks the conclusion of the Standing in Solidarity season, a series of social justice conversations often paired with the PSEG True Diversity Film Series.

“NJPAC is committed to bringing our community together to talk about the issues that are genuinely important to all of us,” says NJPAC President and CEO John Schreiber. “Both as virtual gatherings and, now, as really meaningful in-person events, the Arts Center’s Standing in Solidarity conversations have been a unique opportunity for so many of us to learn, listen deeply, and find common ground.”

The event will feature a screening of the documentary “Tell Them We Are Rising: The Story of Black Colleges and Universities” (Firelight Films, 2018) in the Chase Room at 6PM. Following the screening, a panel of prominent leaders — all graduates of historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) — will discuss the cultural, economic, and social impact of HBCUs.

Calvin Ledford Jr., president of the PSEG Foundation and director of PSEG Corporate Social Responsibility, will moderate the panel. “In the heart of our nation’s story lies the profound legacy of historically Black colleges and universities. HBCUs exemplify hope, progress, and opportunity,” says Ledford. “As a proud alum of Hampton University, I am honored to moderate a panel discussion alongside fellow HBCU graduates. I look forward to exploring the impactful legacy of these institutions on American history, culture, and identity. Together, let us celebrate Juneteenth and embrace the pivotal role HBCUs play in shaping generations and our nation.”

Panelists include Brielle Lewis, director of Sponsorship Strategy & Activation at Prudential Financial; Dr. Karma Brown Warren, medical leader at Metro Vein Centers, Inc.; and Mayor of Newark, Ras J. Baraka. “It is in relationships with both people and ideas that we define ourselves, and from there hone our dreams and shape our world,” says Mayor Baraka. “That is why the educational, social, and cultural dynamics of higher education institutions, and in particular, HBCUs, are so critical to America’s sound and solid foundation in peace and prosperity.”

Following the panel, the Juneteenth festivities will continue at the Hahne Building (54 Halsey St.) for an afterparty starting at 8:45PM, hosted by Heritage Hall. The afterparty will feature the pop-up photography exhibit “HBCU Experience,” produced by students from MENTOR Newark. This interactive exhibit showcases the culture of HBCUs and celebrates their pride.