Wisdom Across Generations: Stories, Lessons, Reflections
Virtual EventJoin us on Tuesday, October 28 from 7:00–8:30 PM ET for a powerful virtual event that bridges the past and present through stories of courage, faith, and purpose.
March On! brings history to life through a vibrant lineup of film screenings, panel discussions, and cultural experiences. From powerful pre-festival programs to engaging post-festival conversations, each event is designed to honor the legacy of the civil rights movement and inspire a new generation of changemakers.
We’re building momentum before the festival even begins—and keeping the energy going long after it ends! Below is a sneak peek at the special events March On! is hosting before and after this year’s Festival.
Looking for the full lineup of powerful programming happening during the Festival? Head to our Festival webpage to explore the dozens of dynamic events that await!
Join us on Tuesday, October 28 from 7:00–8:30 PM ET for a powerful virtual event that bridges the past and present through stories of courage, faith, and purpose.
Step into the glittering world of the Harlem Renaissance, where art, politics, and pleasure converged in a swirl of brilliance and defiance. Inspired by the legendary gatherings at A’Lelia Walker’s Dark Tower salon—the top floor of her Harlem townhouse on 136th Street—this closing celebration channels the glamour, intellect, and audacity of an era that redefined Black creativity. The Dark Tower was the gathering space for the luminaries of the day—artists, writers, musicians, poets, their patrons, and friends from Walker’s travels abroad.
Poetry drifts through the crowd, an aerialist twists gracefully overhead, and the rhythms shift through an intellectual and emotional journey on the history of Black music—from the swing of the 1920s to the grooves of funk, the pulse of hip hop, and the global beat of Afro Beats. A spirited conversation between A’Lelia Bundles, granddaughter of the original “Joy Goddess,” and March On! Artistic Director Isisara Bey will bring to life the stories, style, and cultural impact of Walker’s famed salon, connecting its legacy to the artistry and activism of today.
Thought-provoking dialogue intertwines with artistry, as reflections on legacy mingle seamlessly with the thrill of the moment. Laughter mingles with the clink of glasses, rich flavors tempt your palate, and a table of carefully curated books invites you to take a piece of the experience home.
More than a party, it’s a living tribute to a cultural awakening—an afternoon to be inspired, to connect, and to carry the spark forward.
Special Guests:
Presented biennially by Dr. Sharon Malone—renowned OB/GYN and sister of civil rights pioneer Vivian Malone Jones—this award honors contemporary women who demonstrate extraordinary courage in the fight for racial justice. Named after the first African American to graduate from the University of Alabama, the award celebrates those who, like Vivian, boldly confront injustice and inspire progress.
This year, we are delighted to honor commentator, author, television and podcast host Joy-Ann Reid, who will be joined In Conversation with the Honorable Eric Holder, former US Attorney General. With welcoming remarks from Jalaya Liles Dunn, Director of Learning for Justice at the Southern Poverty Law Center, and a special performance by actor Lisa Arrindell.
And at the top of the program, we will also proudly celebrate the creativity and vision of the winners of the Student and Emerging Filmmaker Competition.
Come early! The first 500 people to arrive receive a free copy of Joy-Ann Reid's book Medgar and Myrlie: Medgar Evers and the Love Story That Awakened America.
Partner
We are excited to partner on this event with Metropolitan AME Church, a historic national church at the vanguard of creating space for all human beings to imagine and build a just and beautiful community and world.
