This novel event is being hosted and programmed by the Black Impact Collaborative. BIC began as a collective of leaders across organizations led by and serving African Americans in Greater Grand Rapids. Since April 25, 2020, the collaborative has worked to respond to the COVID-19 crisis through the delivery of programs and community engagement activities.

This group of leaders are committed to moving in solidarity and collectively supporting the short and long-term needs of Black Greater Grand Rapids (BGGR). The vision is to garner the human and financial resources necessary to maintain a thriving, safe, and whole BGGR during COVID and beyond.

Juneteenth, the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration honoring the end of slavery in the United States, is a day of liberation - a feeling many have when skating. Therefore, we're excited to have Juneteenth serve as the backdrop for our public announcement that BIC is officially a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization. This activation is just one opportunity to educate the community about our mission and the plight and liberation of Black people. It is also a celebration of the ongoing work and impact that BIC will make in this community for many years to come.