In the days leading up to the 6th Annual Juneteenth Festival Block Party presented by House of Soul, founder Nichol Stevenson promised something bigger and better. Those who attended the milestone 5th anniversary experience in 2024 probably wondered if it was possible. Three thousand guests packed the whole block of Washington between 12th and 13th Streets, and Stevenson was presented with a proclamation by then-mayor Tishaura Jones. On Thursday, they found out that it was. The size of the crowd nearly doubled. And instead of accepting recognition, Stevenson acknowledged the efforts of individuals who were working to make the region a better place.
“Over 5,000 beautiful souls came through yesterday to celebrate our freedom, our culture and our community,” Stevenson wrote in a heartfelt thank you message on Facebook.
Celebrants gathered to shop with the vendors, artists, and caterers who lined the edges of the street. All things could be found here from t-shirts, jewelry, lotions, nail art, and baked goods. All were Black owned and operated.
“Every vendor sold out. The kids had an amazing time. The fashion show was unforgettable. The music was fresh. The DJs kept the vibe just right – and the energy was unmatched all day.”
A highlight of the Juneteenth Festival and Block Party is its fashion show. This year featured five designers who unveiled their chic and innovative Juneteenth inspired collections. Before models ripped the runway for the main event, House of Soul took a moment to recognize four Black community leaders whose passions and creativity are helping build a greater St. Louis.
Perri Johnson, Dean of Loyola Academy, was presented with the House of Soul W.E.B. Du Bois Award for being an image of excellence. Michael Woods received the House of Soul Frederick Douglass Award for his unwavering commitment to creating opportunities as co-founder of Dream Builders 4 Equity.
Brandon Williams, CEO of the Boys and Girls Club of Greater St. Louis, received the House of Soul Carter G. Woodson Award for uplifting the youth and providing safe spaces. The awards portion concluded with Yolanda “Yoro” Newson, a stylist, jewelry designer – and producer of this year’s fashion show. She was bestowed with the House of Soul Zora Neale Hurston Award for the doors she has opened with her artistic force.
“I feel like it’s so important for artists and people to be able to be seen in places and spaces that they may not have been before,” Newson said in her acceptance speech, “And God has put it on my heart – and put it in my feet – to do the things that I need to do for my community.”
The fashion show commenced immediately following Newson’s remarks. It was hosted by Lele, founder of St. Louis vs ERRbody. After a brief introduction of herself and the business, the first collection that took to the runway was a line from Napps owner Fulani Bettis. She presented a collection of street-wear with t-shirts featuring the brand’s logo. Naturally, the models had their locks styled in intricate buns and ponytails – much like the ones offered at the salon founded by Bettis’ late mother, natural hair pioneer and fashion designer Mekhat Moore. One of the looks even resembled a large bouquet of flowers.
Designer Nadya followed with a casual glam collection named “Forever Limited.” It contained peplum skirts and A-line dresses mixed with camo and denim that showcased the diversity of these textiles. Pieces by Aileen with “Rustic Designs” were an easy breezy collection of everyday black cotton dresses perfect for the warm weather. The collection featured braided and fringe accents on the dresses around the shoulders, waist, and hips that accentuate the female form.
Jahleel with Label 17 showcased ready-to-wear fashions in the Juneteenth freedom colors as well as red, black, and green with pops of yellow. His line included slacks and knit tops. Some were adorned with the brand’s logo. Others included meaningful quotes like “Free Huey” and “Black Lives Matter.” The designs of Kawana with “Style-Taneous” were a collection of bold statement tops with long flowing strips of fabric – also in the Juneteenth freedom colors – with splashes of denim and gold chain embellishments.
Kisha with “The Woke Brand” and her assortment of elevated street-wear closed the show. The looks featured repurposed denim loaded with fabric patches and metal brooches. While the other designers used popular hip-hop soundtracks to back their models, Kisha recited “Black Privilege” by Unlimited the Poet. The poem illustrated the plight of Black Americans and the growing list of hashtags to remember those who have died.
“Black Privilege” also served as a reminder for how far the Black community has come, and how far we have yet to go – which is what the Juneteenth holiday stands for.
And thanks to Stevenson, St. Louis is able to celebrate with fun, food, fashion, music and highlight the best of our culture in a major way that gets “bigger and better” every year.
“Joy, unity and Black excellence in every direction,” Stevenson said regarding this year’s event. “One day soon, we’d love to take this celebration to the Arch Grounds, because Juneteenth deserves to be seen on the biggest stage STL has – mark my words.”