The largest Black arts institution in New Jersey marked Juneteenth this year with a vibrant and purposeful three-day summit, drawing together hundreds of community members, artists, educators, and leaders. Newark Symphony Hall, a historic cornerstone of the city’s cultural life, opened its doors to celebrate Black arts and honor Juneteenth through a series of panels, performances, and community-driven conversations. The summit, now in its third year, was designed not only to commemorate freedom and progress but also to spark ideas around economic development, creative empowerment, and the ongoing restoration of the iconic venue.
Throughout the week, the events focused on connecting the past to the future, reflecting on the role of the arts in shaping identity and building sustainable communities. Panel discussions explored how creative industries can serve as vehicles for growth and transformation, particularly in historically underserved urban areas. Attendees engaged in dialogues centered on entrepreneurship in the arts, funding opportunities for creatives, and the importance of representation and narrative in performance spaces. The overarching message was clear: Black creativity is essential not only to cultural expression but also to economic resilience and social progress.
One of the central themes of the summit was the campaign to revitalize Newark Symphony Hall itself. Organizers emphasized that the restoration project is not merely about preserving a building, but about investing in a cultural sanctuary that has served generations of Newark residents. Plans are underway to transform the hall into a dynamic and inclusive hub for music, theater, education, and entrepreneurship. The summit’s events served as both a celebration of existing talent and a call to action for continued support. By fostering awareness and raising funds, the organizers hope to ensure that the venue remains a living part of Newark’s cultural future.
Talia Young, president and CEO of Newark Symphony Hall, described the event as both a celebration and a responsibility. “It’s also an obligation to make sure we’re telling our story,” she said. “We’re opening our doors for culture and making sure everyone has a place here at Newark Symphony Hall.” Her words echoed a broader commitment to equity in the arts, ensuring that local creatives have access to the stage, to resources, and to spaces where their voices are heard and valued.
The Juneteenth summit highlighted the role of arts education as a pillar of community empowerment. Many sessions addressed how exposure to the arts at a young age can transform lives, inspire leadership, and promote self-expression. Attendees ranged from emerging local artists and young students to seasoned professionals and civic leaders, all sharing a common goal: to uplift the community through cultural expression. The event also created opportunities for networking, mentorship, and collaborative partnerships that are expected to extend well beyond the summit.
As Newark Symphony Hall approaches its 100th anniversary next year, the Juneteenth celebration served as a powerful reminder of its enduring legacy. For nearly a century, the hall has been a space where culture, history, and community converge. With plans to revitalize the building in motion and renewed energy from events like the Juneteenth summit, its future looks as dynamic as its past. The message resonated clearly throughout the week: Black arts are not only to be celebrated—they are to be preserved, nurtured, and championed as vital threads in the fabric of American culture.
In a time when cities across the country are grappling with questions of equity, inclusion, and economic recovery, Newark’s Juneteenth summit stands out as an example of how arts institutions can lead with purpose. By embracing history and harnessing creativity, Newark Symphony Hall is not only honoring Juneteenth—it is paving a path for future generations to thrive.
