MYITI SENGSTACKE–RICE | President and CEO Chicago Defender Charities, Inc. | Publisher and Founder Bronzeville Life

In the grand tradition of timeless celebrations, the Bud Billiken Parade stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of community and education. For 95 years, this parade has been more than a mere event; it is an emblem of empowerment, heralding the season of learning and growth. The Bud Billiken is also the major fundraiser for the Chicago Defender Charities year-round programming. The day unfolds with the distinguished and well-sought-after VIP breakfast, followed by the 10 am live broadcast on ABC7, a signal to commence our journey. We march, dance, and float for nearly three miles, beginning on 39th and King Drive, culminating in a resplendent “Grand Finale” at 51st and Dr. Martin Luther King Drive. Thereafter, the exciting ceremony spills over into Washington Park, where a grand back-to-school festival awaits, brimming with food, fun, and festivities for children and families alike. My heartfelt gratitude extends to my extraordinary team, whose tireless efforts begin anew right after the last parade and whose dedication shines through in every detail.

This year, we are humbled to be able to award over $75,000.00 in scholarships to over 30 deserving college students. I am also honored to recognize a few amazing leaders in the community who exemplify community leadership and promote youth education and creativity. Community Leader and Recording Artist Che ‘Rhymefest’ Smith; Motivational Speaker and Real Estate Mogul Jemal King; Empire Dance CEO Latisha Waters; CEO of WDB Marketing Keeana Barber and ABC7 19-time Emmy Award winner Hosea Sanders.

This year, we have the honor of welcoming Jason Weaver, the illustrious American actor, singer, and songwriter, as our Grand Marshal. His presence is a fitting tribute to the parade’s rich cultural heritage. Weaver’s artistry and dedication mirror the parade’s ethos, celebrating African American culture and inspiring our youth.

Our lineage traces back to the Chicago Defender, founded in 1905 by Robert Sengstacke Abbott. This publication was not merely a newspaper but a voice of empowerment, resilience, and aspiration for the African American community. The birth of The Chicago Defender Charities in 1947 furthered this commitment to social justice and community development.

The Bud Billiken Parade, since its inception in 1929, has grown into a grand spectacle, a vibrant tapestry of music, dance, art, and communal pride. Its significance is magnified by the participation of marching bands and local schools, underscoring the paramount importance of education. This year, we have proudly awarded 31 scholarships, a testament to our unwavering commitment to the academic advancement of our young people.

As we look forward, the challenges that lie ahead are formidable, yet our resolve remains unyielding. The Chicago Defender Charities and the Bud Billiken Parade have demonstrated time and again their resilience and capacity for progress. As we march into the future, let us continue to uphold and support these venerable institutions. They remind us of the power of community, the indispensability of education, and the boundless potential for positive change. In these testing times, the triumphs of our institutions and our community serve as beacons of hope, guiding us toward a brighter, more inclusive tomorrow for all.