23 May Afropunk makes its debut in Historic Overtown
Thousands of festival-goers met Miami’s pioneer black community with enthusiasm for the first time. This is an important moment for AfroPunk, and also for Overtown. Through the redevelopment of Overtown, cultural tourism remains a number one priority for the neighborhood.
“It is with great pleasure and excitement that the Southeast Overtown Park West Community Redevelopment Agency (SEOPW CRA) welcomes AfroPunk to Historic Overtown.
In our effort to attract new visitors, the economic impact is felt throughout the entire area, as individuals learn about what we have to offer.
Festival attendees express themselves through fashion.
Events such as these highlight the SEOPW CRA’s commitment to the revitalization of this beloved community.” – James McQueen, Executive Director of the Southeast Overtown Park West Community Redevelopment Agency.
James McQueen has been serving the agency since November but has been walking the streets of Overtown for decades as he was born and raised near 10th street. He remembers a time when Overtown was bustling with jazz, entertainment, and some of the most famous Black celebrities of that time. He wants to remind everyone that entertainment is not new to Overtown, and the SEOPW CRA is relaunching what was with the opportunities and technology of today.
DJ Andre Soul opened the AfroPunk stage with a one-hour set.
Producers of AfroPunk engaged with local talent and ensured that the community had a seat at the table. Local food vendors, artists, and black-owned businesses were present at the festival. In addition to vendors, local bands, musicians, and DJs were also participants in the festivities.
“Having the opportunity to DJ at AfroPunk was amazing. The chance to rep[resent] the community I serve and raise consciousness through music frequencies is priceless “Andre Soul a.k.a. Baba Ka HOUSE OF SOUL. DJ Andre Soul, an Overtown stakeholder, opened up the AfroPunk stage with an hour set. Overtown is excited to host future AfroPunk festivals as well as other cultural events.
“We thank AfroPunk for their efforts to incorporate our community into their festival. Oftentimes, the people of Overtown are ignored or pushed to the side when newcomers come to our neighborhood. Celebrating black culture in Historic Overtown was a prideful display of cultural unity.” Christine King, Chairwoman of the Miami City Commission and SEOPW CRA.
AfroPunk is an international festival that promotes unity and amplifies creativity, pride, and self-love. Music unites festival-goers as they express themselves through fashion, hair, makeup, and more.
You can find more information about the festival here.
You can find other images and videos from the festival here.