“We feel excited to be a part of this year’s Bud Billiken® Parade. The home movies from the Ramon Williams collection offer a window into the past, showcasing the joy, energy, and community spirit that has always defined the parade. I am also very impressed by the creativity of the young students and look forward to walking in the parade together with those talented youth.”
PARADE DAY
The South Side Home Movie Project (SSHMP) brought a vibrant celebration of South Side history to the 95th Bud Billiken Parade by streaming rare footage from its newly digitized Ramon Williams Collection. Parade-goers were treated to nostalgic scenes from the 1940s to the 1960s, including legendary moments like Joe Louis leading the parade as Grand Marshall in 1948, Chicago Defender Paperboys highlighting the event's origins in promoting youth literacy, and dazzling beauty queens from Chicago and beyond.
Accompanying the mobile screen showcasing these historical gems, the talented students from APL’s Teen Arts Council marched with vibrant, hand-made banners. These stunning works of art were created using embroidery, appliqué, and sewing, thoughtfully honoring the parade's legacy and SSHMP's mission.
With perfect weather and lively energy, it was a beautiful day to celebrate the rich history and culture of Chicago's South Side.
Parade photos by Natasha Moustache
ART + PUBLIC LIFE TEEN ARTS COUNCIL
In collaboration with the South Side Home Movie Project (SSHMP), the Teen Arts Council created banners for the 95th Bud Billiken Parade using embroidery, appliqué, and sewing to honor the parade's history and SSHMP’s mission.
The students connected with ideals like Black Pride and Community, studying Pan-Africanism through textile art and archival footage of the Bud Billiken Parade. A highlight was a movie day where students watched Ramon Williams' films of the Bud Billiken Parade from 1940-1960. This inspired their banner designs.
Guided by Simone Scigousky, who joined TAC in fall 2023, the teens produced four banners using various fiber art techniques. This summer celebrated the legacy of African American and African art traditions.
Teen Arts Council students meet and introduce their banner design to South Side Home Movie Project founding director Dr. Jacqueline Stewart
“The Bud Billiken® Parade is a beloved Chicago tradition celebrating youth and education, and we are thrilled to have our South Side Home Movie Project and TAC participate in it. This activation, which aligns with APL’s cultural stewardship practice, is unique as it is both historic and filled with youthful enthusiasm. It is a perfect example of the synergy of creativity on the Arts Block.”