Juneteenth rebirthed!

Ahhh, the smell of charcoal and meat hitting the grill never gets old for a celebration in the black community. It whistles the sentiments of laughter, liquor, music, and fellowship with family and friends alike. However, Juneteenth was about a whole lot more this year. This year we have begun a revolution and re-birthed a movement of black pride and excellence. Amid the continuous fight for justice in a societal hierarchy of racial systemic injustice, our unity sprang forth like the gushing waters from a fire hydrant.

This year we ensured that the celebration would be recognized and televised and in Birmingham, AL, Whitney Simone of Simone’s Kitchen ATL showed us how it is done with her Food Truck Grand Opening. It was the place to be in Birmingham on Juneteenth. All the vendors were BLACK! She has definitely raised the bar on how to successfully draw black people in unity all in one place to enjoy fantastic food, fellowship, and entertainment. Talk about stimulating the economy! LOL!!!

Here is the lady of the hour Whitney Simone, owner and operator of Simone’s Kitchen ATL. If you haven’t had her seafood grilled cheese or buffalo chicken egg rolls you are missing your whole life. She highlighted so many awesome black-owned businesses and food trucks for this grand opening and it was simply amazing.

Fortunately, as a native to Birmingham and a blogger, I was honored to be granted the opportunity to be apart of this amazing event and capture it in my own way. Here are a few highlights from my time at the festival.

Upon first walking in, I encountered a clothing boutique by the name of Alise O’neal Enterprise. She had very functional and modern pieces that offered comfort while still being cute and classy. There was also Greek apparel as well, which is always a hit at events.

Next is one of my favorites, which is NOLA Ice. You all may or may not know this, but I went to college in New Orleans, LA. Shoutout to Dillard University my alma mater. It is like my 2nd home, so getting the opportunity to experience a little taste of my other home is always a pleasure. Snowballs are a huge part of the New Orleans experience.

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Why Not Rhino’s definitely had a long line. I mean, who doesn’t love tacos right. I did not have a chance to personally experience their food this time, but they are definitely on my list for the next food truck festival.

Anyone who knows me knows that I love “all things BLACK”. Euphorically Black offered a variety of black inspired accessories to make any outfit pop with pride. I will have all my earring money ready on the next meeting.

CBD has been hot on the market and so, of course, there had to be an offering of this very beneficial product courtesy of The Pink CBD Store. The owner Dee Edwards had a grand opening a few months ago at her brick and mortar located in Trussville, AL and it was phenomenal. I suggest you take a look around on the website linked above. There is something for everyone.

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Melanin Jewels is one of my favorite places to shop for many of my authentic crystal pieces and sea moss. The owner Breanna Wright is intentionally purposeful in the creation of everything she produces. Her handcrafted pieces and products are always infused with love and positive vibes. Get you some melanin magic!