As a result, the Indiana Black Expo was created.
Nearly half a century later, the need for this organization’s work is especially evident after a year of headlines on racially charged police brutality and the income inequality between whites and minorities in America.
Black Expo has grown to be one of the largest vehicles in the state for advancing African-Americans socially and economically. The group hosts various symposiums and fundraisers throughout the year, but their most well-known event is the Indiana Black Expo Inc. Summer ?Celebration.
This year’s celebration started July 9 and will end July 19.
Events include a Youth Leadership Summit July 17-19. The theme of this year’s summit is “Your Life Matters,” a title alluding to the national “black lives matter” campaign.
In the summit’s marketing materials, the title is stamped meaningfully over an image of a figure with both hands raised.
“I have everything I need to make a difference today,” the summit’s creed reads. “I will leave behind every excuse and trust God to lead the way.”
“Students describe attending the Indiana Black Expo with words like empowering, supportive, educational,” wrote Elizabeth Blevins, the assistant vice president for marketing and communications in IU’s Office of Diversity, Equity and Multicultural Affairs, in an email to the IDS. “Youth are exposed to networking opportunities and resources in the areas of education, health and careers. There is also arts and ?entertainment.”
More than 200 volunteers, who come together from each IU campus, work to represent the University at Black Expo.
The volunteers, made up of both current students and alumni, stand at booths and host forums to teach the youth in attendance about the college application process, financial aid and what it’s like to be a student at IU.
“I think I speak for many of us when I share that there is great personal pride in knowing that we are helping to change lives for the better, not only through immediate engagement and awareness development but also in supporting the creation of a more diverse student body,” Blevins said,
Another way IU is involved in the celebration is through sponsoring the Pacers Sports and Entertainment Corporate Luncheon, which will take ?place July 17.
During this year’s lunch, former Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Reggie Wayne will be presented with a key to the city.
“Education is a key attribute to improving the quality of life of youth, which in turn enhances our communities, state and nation,” Blevins said. “As a university, we are committed to seeking solutions to tackle obstacles faced by minority and underrepresented students in attaining an ?education.”
In addition to luncheons and speakers, musical guests are always a highlight of the event. This year, the iconic singer Patti LaBelle is the main headliner.
LaBelle was the lead singer of Patti LaBelle and the Bluebelles, the first African-American vocal group to ever appear on the cover of Rolling Stone Magazine.
LaBelle is best known for her hit disco song “Lady Marmalade,” and last year she appeared as a guest star on the television show, “American Horror Story.”
LaBelle, a Grammy winner, will perform alongside the Isley Brothers on July 18 at Bankers Life Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.
Other events include an employment opportunity fair and a slam dunk contest.
