Juneteenth is a day of great significance, marked by celebration and a spirit of liberation. At Wild Tribute, we embrace this occasion and stand behind initiatives that aim to preserve African American history and foster education. In honor of this significant occasion, let us shine a light on two remarkable projects that we are proud to support:the African American Experience Project in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the No Tears Project by the Jefferson National Parks Association. These initiatives exemplify our commitment to promoting inclusivity, knowledge, and the enduring legacy of African American heritage.
The African American Experience Project in Great Smoky Mountains National Park is an initiative that unveils the hidden narratives of African Americans in and around the breathtaking Smokies. Launched in 2018, this collaborative endeavor encourages rigorous research into the untold stories and amplifies them through various platforms, programs, and products within the park. To extend the project's reach, our 4% donation was put towards a captivating podcast mini-series, "Sepia Tones: Exploring Black Appalachian Music”. Hosted by Dr. William Turner and Dr. Ted Olson, this podcast takes listeners on a journey through the roots and branches of Southern Appalachian music, highlighting the remarkable contributions of Black musicians throughout history. You can find the Sepia Tones podcast on popular streaming platforms, allowing you to explore and appreciate the rich tapestry of Black music heritage.
Another initiative we’d like to highlight is the No Tears Project, supported by the Jefferson National Parks Association. Through our 4% donation, we lend our support to this empowering 4-day touring jazz residency program that utilizes music as a catalyst for community education on St. Louis's pivotal role in the American Civil Rights story. This incredible project encompasses a range of transformative events and performances. The culmination of this effort took place in April of this year, where community performances brought light to the power of music to bridge divides and promote understanding, unity, and social change.
At Wild Tribute, we hold a deep appreciation for Juneteenth and are dedicated to supporting initiatives that honor African American heritage, foster education, and promote unity. We invite you to join us in commemorating this significant occasion and supporting impactful endeavors that contribute to a more inclusive and enlightened future.
Learn more about The African American Experience in the Smokies Project here.
Learn more about the No Tears Project – St. Louis, by the Jefferson National Parks Association here.
