Photos Courtesy AAHPO
NEWARK – The African American Heritage Parades Organization (AAHPO) hosted a successful and uplifting Family Day Celebration at Weequahic Park, bringing together elected officials, community leaders, families, youth, and children for an afternoon of culture, fellowship, entertainment, and community unity.
The free community event was well attended and supported by a broad cross-section of Newark residents and community stakeholders. Families enjoyed face painting, games, arts and crafts, storytelling, music by DJ Mustafa, free refreshments, blow-up attractions, and preventive healthcare information provided through mobile health units.
The celebration was attended by several public officials and community leaders, including Lieutenant Governor Dale Caldwell, who attended and spoke to the gathering. South Ward Councilman Patrick Council delivered a beautiful prayer and a strong message to the community to participate, support and attend the Parade.
Newly elected Central Ward Councilwoman Amina Bey also attended and continued her longstanding support of the African American Heritage Parade and its mission. Council President Larry Crump served as a sponsor of the Kids Zone, which provided face painting, games, and arts and crafts for children and families, this attraction was also sponsored by Councilman Council and the New Jersey American Federation of Teachers.
Husain Tyler, President of the Vulcan Pioneers of New Jersey, encouraged those in attendance to support the African American Heritage Statewide Parade and pledged the continued support of the Vulcan Pioneers. He noted that the Vulcan Pioneers, along with the Bronze Shields, have remained consistently present and supportive throughout the entire existence of the Parade.
Charles N. Hall, Jr., Chairman of the African American Heritage Parades Organization, emphasized the importance of the Parade, particularly in the times and climate of today. He thanked Mayor Baraka, the Newark Municipal Council and the County of Essex for their partnership in the mission of the AAHPO.
“This Parade is more than a celebration. It is a statement of who we are, where we have come from, and where we must go together as a community,” Hall said. “Our 60th Anniversary theme is ‘Unity, Love, Support,’ and those principles are essential to the safety, growth, and development of the African American community, all people of color, and all those who believe in freedom, equality, and justice for all.”
Hall further stated that the success of Family Day demonstrated the power of community partnership and the importance of keeping cultural traditions alive for future generations.
“When elected officials, community organizations, labor, families, and young people come together in the spirit of unity, we strengthen the foundation of our community,” Hall said. “The African American Heritage Statewide Parade has stood for 60 years because people continue to believe in its purpose and its value.”
Twin City Supermarket, City Supermarkets and Extra Supermarket Avon Ave, of Newark were also recognized with plaques for their generous support of AAHPO’s Family Day Celebration and Community Service. The supermarket owners demonstrated true community partnership by providing a free full lunch for families, including sandwiches, snacks, and drinks. In addition, the AAHPO Committee provided chicken and salad for parents, while families were also treated to popsicles and fresh lemonade to help keep everyone cool throughout the day.
Their generosity helped create a welcoming, family-centered atmosphere and reflected the important role these supermarkets play in serving and supporting Newark’s neighborhoods.
From AAHPO: The African American Heritage Parade Organization remains deeply committed to reaching out, lifting up, and serving our community. Over the years, our organization has proudly brought entertaining, educational, and culturally enriching Black History programs into schools, churches, and community spaces.
Beyond celebration and education, we have consistently answered the call to support families in need by providing groceries, including fresh vegetables and other essentials, during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday seasons. This ongoing work reflects our belief that true community service means preserving our history, strengthening our families, and standing with our people in meaningful and practical ways. The most recent Grocery Giveaway was in December 2025.
The Family Day Celebration served as a lead-up to the upcoming African American Heritage Statewide Parade, which will mark its historic 60th Anniversary. Organizers are calling on individuals, organizations, businesses, labor unions, churches, civic groups, and community partners to register, volunteer, sponsor, and financially support the Parade in order to maintain its level of excellence.
Special thanks to all our sponsors who are listed on our Sponsor Logo Bar.
Parade registration is now open. Forms can be downloaded at www.aaparades.org.
Donations are urgently needed and greatly appreciated to help the African American Heritage Parades Organization continue presenting cultural, educational, and community-centered programs that uplift families, children, and neighborhoods throughout our community. Contributions may be made online through our website at aaparades.org. Checks should be made payable to the African American Heritage Parades Organization and mailed to 1576 Springfield Avenue, Maplewood, New Jersey 07040. Your support helps us continue the important work of celebrating our history, serving our people, and strengthening our community.
For more information, to volunteer, register, or sponsor the Parade, please contact: Charles N. Hall Jr. – African American Heritage Parades Organization. 973-713-3386, cnhalljr108@gmail.com, www.aaparades.org.
