Pasadena Prepares for 42nd Black History Parade Honoring Jackie Robinson’s Legacy

Preparations are now underway for one of Southern California’s largest and longest-running Black history parades, the City of Pasadena’s 42nd annual Black History Parade and Festival on February 17th, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

This year’s theme, “Past, Present, Future: Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Jackie Robinson,” pays tribute to the iconic figure in American sports history.

The parade will kick off at the corner of Fair Oaks Ave. and Mountain View Street, concluding at Robinson Park, at 1081 N. Fair Oaks Ave., where the festival – a vibrant celebration of African American culture and heritage – will unfold from noon to 4 p.m. 

The focal point of the day will be the recognition of hometown hero Jackie Robinson’s significant contributions to the Civil Rights Movement and the Pasadena community. 

Robinson made history in Major League Baseball as the first African American player in the 20th century. He debuted with the Brooklyn Dodgers on April 15, 1947, breaking the color barrier in the sport. Despite facing repeated threats and abuse from fans, Robinson had a decade-long Hall of Fame career. He led the Dodgers to six league championships and one World Series victory.

Serving as the Parade’s Grand Marshal is Danny J. Bakewell, Jr., Vice President of the Bakewell Company.

This year’s Celebrity Grand Marshals, award-winning actors Michael Jai White and Gillian White, known for their accomplishments both on and off the screen, will bring a blend of glamor and talent. 

Pastor William Turner Jr., founder and CEO of the Community Outreach Center of Pasadena takes on the role of community Grand Marshal, while the Youth Grand Marshals will be represented by the Rose Court – the Queen and Princesses of the Tournament of Roses.

Attendees are advised to arrive early to secure the best viewing spots along the route. Free parking will be available on a first-come, first-served basis at Calvary Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, at 135 Glorieta Street.

Several street closures are scheduled during the event, and motorists are urged to exercise caution in the affected areas. The parade will be recorded by Pasadena Media and broadcast live on KPAS, Pasadena’s government TV station, and Arroyo, the city’s community access channel. Broadcast times can be found at www.PasadenaMedia.org. 

Key sponsors for the 2024 Black History Parade and Festival include Pasadena City College, Huntington Hospital, Tournament of Roses, The Bakewell Company, NAACP, Titan Disposal, Pasadena Black Municipal Employees Association, Pasadena Management Association, Kidspace Children’s Museum, and Pasadena Recreation and Parks Foundation.

The Black Parade and Festival are part of a month-long series of programs, events and activities for all ages celebrating Black History Month in Pasadena throughout February. 

For more information, visit www.cityofpasadena.net/city-manager/news/city-of-pasadena-announces-2024-black-history-month-celebrations-and-activities/.