Held at the Levitt Pavilion in downtown Dayton, the evening will begin with pre-event programming featuring “Boots on the Ground” a tribute to culture and heritage through soul southern line dancing. DJ SKNO will take over and keep the celebration going until the ceremonies begin with a drum call just prior to 6 p.m.

A community curated ceremony and commemoration will feature world renowned DJAPO Cultural Arts Institute African Dance and Drumming as well as a Black Music Month tribute by Premium Blend, food sculpture, poetry, face painting and more.

The R&B visionary, Goapele will take the stage at 7:45 p.m. to conclude the celebration with a concert. Goapele’s music transcends genres, resonating with universal truths and the complexities of life, love, and the human experience.

• 5:00 p.m. Pre-event programming – Boots on the Ground Heritage and Cultural Line dance & Storytelling
• 5:30 p.m. DJ Break
• 5:50 p.m. Drum call
• 6:00 p.m. Commemoration and Celebration
• 7:45 p.m.  Goapele

Goapele, an Oakland native, is a visionary in modern R&B, known for her captivating blend of soul, jazz, pop, and moody basslines. Her music transcends genres, resonating with universal truths and the complexities of life, love, and the human experience. Born to a South African father who escaped apartheid and a German-Jewish mother from New York, Goapele’s diverse heritage influences her music and worldview. Her formative years at Berklee College of Music honed her talent, leading to her debut in 2001 with the anthem “Closer.” Her albums, including Even Closer, Break of Dawn, and COLOURS, showcase her evolution as an artist, exploring themes of healing, self-worth, and transformation. Beyond music, Goapele is a passionate humanitarian, advocating for social change and championing causes like racial justice and women’s rights. Her lifestyle brand, Dreamseeker, reflects her commitment to authenticity, curating products inspired by her synesthesia. Goapele’s music has been featured in films, TV series, and documentaries, and she has performed alongside legends like Prince and Stevie Wonder. She continues to inspire through her music, advocacy, and storytelling.