In partnership with Rainbow Promotions, the outdoor concert raises funds to support leadership development for African American students enrolled at California State University, Dominguez Hills who will pursue careers in politics, social justice, and beyond.
With a mission that includes developing the next generation of elected officials, civic, and policy leaders, the Dymally Institute will host the Dymally International Jazz & Arts Festival on Saturday, April 30, at the Dignity Health Sports Park (formerly Stubhub).
In partnership with Rainbow Promotions, a Black-owned event management company, the festival features Poncho Sanchez, David Sanborn, The Original Wailers, Kirk Whalum with Special Guest Kevin Whalum, Avery Sunshine, Keyon Harrold, the Fernando Pullum Junior Jazz Band, and more. As Los Angeles emerges from the isolation of the pandemic, the festival celebrates the healing power of music as jazz lovers convene for an afternoon of culture where music and art take center stage.
“We are thrilled to share our mission at a time when the world desperately needs solidarity,” said Dr. Anthony Asadullah Samad, executive director of the Dymally Institute, which uses music and art to underwrite thought. “The city deserves the joy that comes from melodies that speak to the soul.”
A signature fundraiser for the Dymally Institute and CSU-Dominguez Hills, the festival supports the Think Tank’s mission to build a digital archive of the history of African Americans, study and research the impact of public policy, lead public discourse on issues important to the African diaspora and develop the next generation of political and community leaders who will advocate for systematic change to combat inequality.
Using music, art, and culture to generate community support for California State University, Dominguez Hills and its surrounding communities, the Dymally Institute prepares students to examine and change social, political and economic structures that impact marginalized populations.
“With a history that spans more than three decades and with hundreds of events under our belt, our team takes pride in coordinating a festival with so much purpose,” said Kim Benoit, president & CEO of Rainbow Promotions. “Through our incredibly talented artists, we are creating music and impacting lives.”
Featuring a visual arts pavilion, retail vendors, and two performing stages with international music, the festival offers general admission and VIP seating. Although music is the foundation of the Dymally International Jazz Festival, the Institute’s mission is on full display as supporters raise funds to continue diverse programming that helps strengthen Black communities.
Tickets are still available with proceeds benefitting the Dymally Fellows Program, Sisters United Mentoring and Leadership Program, and the Presidential Scholars at CSUDH. To purchase tickets, please visit axs.com and search “Dymally.”
