Home
About
Performers
Join Us
Sponsors
Gallery
Contact

3rd annual love & Liberation festival

Juneteenth with BECOME

Join us for a liberating and fun community event for families in honor of Juneteenth.

RSVP NOW

Countdown

Transforming our Reality

About Juneteenth with BECOME

On June 19th, 1865 African Americans living in Texas learned of their emancipation a full two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. For two whole years Black folks were living under the veil of a false reality, believing they were enslaved when in reality they were free. Today, many of us still live under a similar veil – believing that we are separate, when in reality we are unified, that we live in a world of scarcity, when in reality there is abundance, and that the world around us is dangerous and unsafe, when in reality it is bursting at the seams with love. We invite you to join us at the Love & Liberation Festival to honor Juneteenth and experience love & liberation in community through live music, community connection, and physical & emotional wellness.

Event Location

Foster (Timothy) Park,1440 W 84th St, Chicago, IL 60620

Event Date

Saturday, June 15, 2024, 12pm – 4pm

RSVP NOW

BECOME is an innovative movement building organization that boldly facilitates authentic grassroots community leadership and co-creates strategies and solutions to help communities actualize their collective liberation.

Mission

We spark and sustain community transformation by unlocking the cultural strengths and intrinsic wisdom of the people. Together we realize our collective liberation by developing communal care and power.

Check out who's performing at the Love & Liberation Festival

CURRENT performers

Storie Devereaux

EVENT HOST

Storie Devereaux

EVENT HOST

“Newness from underneath the plastic. A classic burned on black wax. In fabrics of age ole glamour. In between the grooves, I create magic.” This is how Storie Devereaux describes her artistry. Known for her muted trumpet vocals, poetry, storylines of socially conscious issues, and with heavy influences of Jazz and 70’s soul music, Storie Devereaux delivers performances high in emotion with a sprinkle of sultriness that will make you fall in love with reflecting. This Chicago native and self named “Storieteller” embodies the name she denotes. A former student of Columbia College Chicago, Storie majored in Poetry with a secondary major in Music composition. Storie enhanced her innate understanding for songwriting while expounding on her ability to infuse poetry with Jazz cultivating a sound tailored to her vocal styling. Poems became spoken word. Spoken word became song. This would be made evident in several appearances and performances at local open mics and as an opening act for the African Caribbean Festival and the Bronzeville Film Festival. To date, Storie Devereaux has performed at notable venues in Chicago such as Roosevelt University Theatre (Columbia College Gospel Choir), Jazz Showcase, Harold Washington Cultural Center, Thalia Hall, and The Promontory in Chicago. In addition Storie is an ambassador and contractor for the AIDS Foundation of Chicago using her Artistry to combat social stigmas associated with HIV. In 2016, Storie partnered with fellow singer and songwriter Tovi Khali and co-founded the performance duo and writing team Stoviink Creatives where they produce and co-write projects for Stoviink and indie Artists in Chicago and abroad. Storie released her first EP, “DirtyRedVinyl” written and produced by Stoviink. “Afterglow,” the single from the EP, earned a spot on several playlists, college, internet, and satellite radio stations with over 10,000 digital streams in its first month of release. Penning features with other indie Artists, and features throughout Chicago including performances at the Bronzeville Cultural Festival while promoting social change, Storie Devereaux has impressed an indelible mark as a multifaceted Artist.

DJ 808z

EVENT HOST

DJ 808z

EVENT HOST

Born and raised in Chicago, the music producer has been creating tracks for local talent for almost 20 years. He services wedding receptions, spins at local bars, picnics, birthdays parties, and other events. DJ 808z specializes in Old school/New School Hip-Hop, R&B, House Music and Soul. Keep up with DJ 808 by following him on IG @dj.808z

Daniella Hope

CURRENT PERFORMER

Daniella Hope

CURRENT PERFORMER

Daniella Hope is a multifaceted healer that channels various mediums—especially music and poetry—to encourage listeners to feel, acknowledge, and accept the complexities of being. Hailing from the South Side of Chicago, she received her BA in Africana Studies from Oberlin College and was the first person to graduate with a BM in Jazz Voice from Oberlin Conservatory. Recently, she received her Masters of Music from The Manhattan School of Music for Jazz Voice. Currently she resides in New York, and is often found performing around the city.

Phone:+1 (859) 254-6589
Email:info@example.com

Mark Buford

current performer

Mark Buford

current performer

Mark Buford is a self-described pragmatic idealist, agent of change, who leverages disciplines in lending, poetry, and real estate development to make a difference. He is a seasoned real estate professional and visionary who provides debt solutions to real estate investors and developers. Known as “The Funder”, he has contributed to over $500 million in commercial loan originations since 2016. Writing and poetry came much later in life as a means to address questions in his mind around his own identity, inequality, and disparities in America. He has written over 100 poems and committed himself to sharing his gift of expression more in 2023. He is also a partner in MOT Design & Development a full-scale real estate development firm. MOT is currently proposing a 17-story high rise development in South Shore neighborhood of Chicago, the first of its kind in over 60 years. Mark attended Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville where he studied Business Management. He is a proud father, grandfather. In addition to serving in the United States Navy for four years.

Rahman

CURRENT PERFORMER

Rahman

CURRENT PERFORMER

Born and raised on the south side of Chicago, Rahman is a vocalist and songwriter in R&B, Rock, and Pop. As a featured soloist in the nationally acclaimed youth singing group Musicality, he performed with Bishop Briggs at Lollapalooza, as a lead singer on national television, and for YouTube music videos totaling over 30 million views. He began his solo career when he first moved to NYC, where he earned his Bachelor of Music in Contemporary Voice at New York University.

Zion Ali

CURRENT PERFORMER

Zion Ali

CURRENT PERFORMER

Zion Ali is a talented 22-year-old artist making waves with the youth in the music industry. He is a creative force who transcends boundaries with his music and visuals. With a passion for hip hop and pop culture, Zion's work resonates with audiences worldwide, fostering connections and spreading love for the art form. His performances encompass not only exceptional singing but also captivating fashion and dynamic dance moves, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all

LSC

current performer

LSC

current performer

LSC is an Independent Artist, Song writer, producer, director and Host for events around chicago and northwest indiana area. She recently earned a degree in audio production from SAE institute, with the goal of assisting others with their aritst development. In her free time she also does background work for the hit TV show 'The CHI". And is currently one of the faces for the Navy Pier Fly Over Chicago" Ride. You can find her music on all platforms. @LSCWB

Goddess Chrissy Jei

CURRENT PERFORMER

Goddess Chrissy Jei

CURRENT PERFORMER

Goddess Chrissy Jei is a servant of spirit, purpose, and people. Through her former experience in acting, modeling, and spoken word poetry she wishes to continue her god-given contribution to the world through writing as an inspiring author and prays to be an inspiration for her 3 young seeds as well.

Joshlean Fair

CURRENT PERFORMER

Joshlean Fair

CURRENT PERFORMER

Rise Training Academy is a cultural space providing wellness and martial arts instruction to the South Side community. Rise Training helps families improve your health through the movement, character-building, and cultural benefits that martial arts and dance provides. Our Samba Program is taught by Joshlean Fair. Joshlean is a native of Chicago and has extensive music and dance experience. Joshlean trains under the tutelage of the extremely talented Dill Costa, a Rio de Janeiro-raised actress, singer, performer, dancer, and an expert in samba dance and performance. Joshlean has also had the privilege to parade four times at Carnaval in Rio de Janeiro, most notably as a solo-style dancer, or Musa, with União de Jacarepaguá and Unidos de Padre Miguel.

Contra Mestre Tinta Forte

current performer

Contra Mestre Tinta Forte

current performer

Rise Training Academy is a cultural space providing wellness and martial arts instruction to the South Side community. Rise Training helps families improve their health through the movement, character-building, and cultural benefits that martial arts and dance provides. Our Capoeira Program is led by Contra Mestre Tinta Forte, Co-Owner of Rise Training Academy. He was born and raised on the South Side of Chicago and started training in the Afro-Brazilian martial art of capoeira under Mestre Marisa Cordeiro (Gingarte Capoeira) in 1999. Contra Mestre Tinta Forte has trained capoeira all over the world including extensive time in Brazil. He managed his own capoeira group in New Mexico for several years before returning to Chicago and opened Rise Training Academy in 2017. Contra Mestre Tinta Forte has taught capoeira throughout the United States and abroad.

Coretta ‘CJ’ Pruitt

SPEAKER

Coretta ‘CJ’ Pruitt

SPEAKER

Coretta J. Pruitt known as “CJ” is an Ambassador for her block in Auburn-Gresham. CJ holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Computer Technology from Purdue University and has held positions with Ernst & Young LLP and Hewitt Associates LLC as a Computer Programmer. Besides being known for her charismatic personality and cheery smile, CJ is also known as a “go-getter” as she has obtained a license from the State of Illinois in Real Estate as well as Life Insurance. CJ’s hobbies include reading, writing, singing, exploring, and art creations. One of her favorite books is John Maxwell’s Failing Forward. And, her favorite quote is “L.I.F.E. (tm) is the biggest teacher of us all because I learn something new everyday” Being the mother of six, CJ truly understands life’s lessons and likes to help others live their fullest potential.

Regina Hopkins

SPEAKER

Regina Hopkins

SPEAKER

Regina Hopkins is a Family Nurse Practitioner serving on Chicago’s Southside. She holds a Masters in Advanced Nursing Science and has worked in the medical field for over 17 years. Her areas of experience include primary prevention, women’s health, family medicine, cancer awareness education, and a special focus on diabetes and heart disease. She has traveled internationally to Southeast Asia, and completed research in Bangkok, Thailand focusing on body image, self-concept, and personal health behaviors of adolescent females. For the past 10 years she has served as Director of Health Education for Advocates for Community Wellness as well as the Program Manager for the Cancer Awareness & Survivorship Support Programs and the Well-Woman Wellness Program. She works diligently to promote health education and disease prevention and management for patients in medically underserved communities. She is the author of two books; Grow In Grace: My 30 Days of Devotion With God, a spiritual devotional read and the co-author of S.A.L.T- (Sisters Accelerating Lives Together), a collection of stories about 4 young women, all evacuees of Hurricane Katrina, who despite struggles and adversity find hope and healing through their Christian faith.

PAST performers

Malik Yusef

PAST performer

Malik Yusef

PAST performer

Multi-Grammy and Emmy Award Winner Malik Yusef is a master songwriter and super producer with UMPG; a celebrated screenplay writer, director, and producer with credits ranging from Urban World Film Festival to Hollywood Show Your Shorts to the Cannes Film Short corner.; A celebrity DJ; an Emmy and Tony winning spoken word performer; and a well traveled philanthropist and environmentalist with social justice and economic empowerment at the forefront having done appearances and campaigns with Leo DiCaprio, Mark Ruffalo, and Jaden Smith. Recent works include Production and Songwriting for the Critically Acclaimed album Donda by Kanye West. (2021) Malik is a Market Maker and Innovator in NFT combining elements of his successful Entertainment, Fashion, And Art Career as well as utilizing his ability to launch, find, and nurture new successful talent like Travis Scott, Big Sean, Raheem Devaughn as well leverage his great working relationships with Roc Nation, Universal, Sony, Warner Brothers, Believe Music, and more.

Alysha Monique

PAST PERFORMER

Alysha Monique

PAST PERFORMER

Bold, sensual vocalist, Alysha, mesmerizes audiences with the sultry vocal styling of jazz and soul music. Her endearing aura bewitches listeners into the essence of love, individuality and self-actualization. Surrounded by incredible musicians who strive to push their music to an innovative level, Alysha’s creativity and originality continue to ascend upward. An experience with Alysha is striking, genuine and poignant.

Tovi Khali

PAST PERFORMANCE

Tovi Khali

PAST PERFORMANCE

At 12 years old sneaking down to the French Quarter in daylight to listen to live bands, Tovi Khali was born. A native of New Orleans, this Songwriter, Vocalist, and all around Entertainer promises a display of brass band, funk, and soul mixed with gritty chest tones. To simplify, if Grace Jones and Issac Hayes had a love child, Tovi would be just that. She owns improv as an impulse and can change an atmosphere in any room, big or small, at any time. Her professional career began when she moved to Los Angeles, California, in 2000. Tovi attended poetry workshops, and artist development/ vocal trainings under the mentorship of Stephanie Spruill, (House of Spruill Los Angeles, CA). Shortly after finding her own voice, Tovi connected with various creatives in Los Angeles and landed an opportunity as a background vocalist with Titus Fatso for a two-season stint for Rhythm of Life sponsored by the Debbie Allen Dance Company. In addition, Tovi provided extended background vocals for George Clinton who encouraged Tovi to “funk on.” In 2003 Tovi Khali met guitarist Michael Jost and collaborated on her first album, “Time, 4:20” which she co- wrote and co-produced. Gaining acclaim, Tovi has been featured and headlined at underground music venues, hosted several events, and performed for festivals and corporate sponsored events. After deciding to move back to New Orleans, Tovi Khali became involved in the nightlife as a full-time emcee on Bourbon Street at the Old Opera House. She performed as a guest vocalist for Duane Dopsie and his Zydeco band, and for the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival and the French Quarter Festival in 2005. In 2016 along with fellow songwriter and singer Storie Devereaux, Tovi Khali co-founded Stoviink Creatives while cultivating concepts and establishing and producing several platforms to display their music, as well as highlight other indie Artists. In 2017 Tovi released her second LP, “French Quarter Style” which played on several local radio stations including Soul 106.3, internet radio stations, and several playlists. Tovi currently serves as the lead vocalist of her band, “Pot Liquor.”

Erica Deniece

PAST performer

Erica Deniece

PAST performer

"Music is a universal language spoken and understood by all. When everything is alright, the music reaches you. When everything is all wrong, the lyrics resonate with you. I use music to heal. It’s my therapy!” -Erica Deniece Erica Deniece is no stranger to the gift of music. This singer, songwriter, and composer comes from a talented lineage of musicians, and has left a mark on the Chicago music scene. A native of the city, Erica Deniece was born and raised on Chicago’s East Side where she attended St. Kilian Elementary School, the birthplace of her musical journey. She migrated to Evanston and attended Evanston Township High School in the mid 90’s to continue her study in music. Erica Deniece continued her education at Harold Washington College where she majored in music theory and education and resurrected the The Sharps and Flats Music Organization as President. Erica Deniece furthered her career by singing professionally with the background trio Women In Motion for two decades. She has performed for many local and mainstream artists throughout the Chicago Metropolitan area and beyond. In 2020, Erica Deniece launched her solo career with The Erica Deniece Experience, a musical healing journey performed throughout Chicago.

Tom Collins

PAST PERFORMER

Tom Collins

PAST PERFORMER

Tom Collins is a storyteller. Through his art, he desires to share overlooked and often disregarded stories, create experiences, and impact lives. His conversational style allows listeners to transplant themselves to a moment in time and reflect. He believes art can convict and shift perspectives. He has a background in strategy, visual communications, and photography. Tom Collins is a Chicago'sSouth Side resident, born and raised in Englewood.

Ezra James

PAST PERFORMANCE

Ezra James

PAST PERFORMANCE

Ezra James is a singer-songwriter, actor, and dancer who is majoring in musical studies and dance at Oberlin College and Conservatory. He is 19 and has been singing from an early age through the Chicago Children’s Choir. He has had the opportunity to perform with the likes of Queen Latifah, Lisa Fisher, Bobby McFerrin, Sam Fisher, Chance the Rapper, Sam Fisher, and Cynthia Erivo.

Community Vendors

Captivating Trendy Glamourous

Captivating Trendy Glamourous

Captivating, Trendy, Glamorous, LLC, (CTG) is a black-owned small business that was created to help promote beauty and enhance confidence in both men and women. CTG's handcrafted body butters come in five unisex and five shimmer fragrances that are all natural. We also have a beard oil that features two amazing scents, as well as a cologne version. My products are guaranteed to leave your skin glowing. I also have waist wraps to assist customers in flattening your midsection and a skin tightening gel that helps with burning unwanted fat. Keep up with CTG at www.ctgglam.com.

Rise Training Academy

Rise Training Academy

Rise Training Academy is a cultural space providing wellness and martial arts instruction to the South Side community. Rise Training is here to help you and your family improve your health through martial arts training and other wellness practices. We offer quality Afro-Brazilian Capoeira classes for kids and adults under the direction of Contra Mestre Tinta Forte. Rise Training teaches in school programs and also supports the community by offering health and wellness events that are family-friendly and free of charge. Rise Training Academy is proudly Black and Filipina-owned and operated.

Advocates for Community Wellness

Advocates for Community Wellness

"Advocates for Community Wellness (A4CW) is a grassroots, faith-based (non-denominational) health promotion and disease prevention organization with a mission to reduce barriers to health equity and increase health literacy for underserved populations. A4CW helps to identify risk factors linked to chronic illnesses with the education of healthy lifestyles, fitness, and proper nutrition. We have worked with various community health advocates with many of our programs by connecting individuals to health supportive resources, which leads to disease prevention and healthier communities. We are working on a Community Health Worker Specialization Training Curriculum that will be designed with a targeted and holistic approach to outreach. This culturally tailored program will provide advanced health education to support the growing need for culturally competent and skilled Community Health Workers in communities of color. Our current educational programs focus on understanding wholistic wellness, heart disease and diabetes education, reducing and managing chronic conditions with healthy nutrition, cancer awareness and recommended screenings, resources navigation for cancer care, and spiritual wellness: Connection of Faith, Health, and Healing for People of Color. We bring our wellness program to people where they live, work, learn, play, and worship at the community level."

JOIN THE LLF CREW:

Community Vendor Sign-Up

Performer or Speaker Sign Up

Our Sponsors

In case you missed it, Watch the Complete Show for our 1st Annual Love and Liberation Festival Livestream

Subscribe to our mailing list

Subscribe to get event updates.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.

Name *

First

Last

Email *

Comment