We are truly grateful to everyone who joined us this past Sunday, November 17th, at the Lula Washington Dance Theater for Activism, Social Justice & Jazz - Part II presented by LPJF360.

The program embodied the power of community, the enduring call for social justice, and the timeless resonance of jazz. Our esteemed moderator and panelists shared thought-provoking insights that inspired reflection and action, illuminating pathways for activism and uplifting our collective spirit.

The afternoon came alive by the captivating artistry of The Kenneth Brown Collective. Their performances—including a heartfelt arrangement of "Amazing Grace" (arr. Melvin Jones), McCoy Tyner’s evocative "Search for Peace", and the world premiere of Kenneth Brown II’s original composition, "Views of the Misunderstood"—wove a rich tapestry of sound, beautifully underscoring the event’s themes of activism and justice.

We were honored to have Assemblyman Isaac Bryan (District 55) sponsor and open the program. His unwavering commitment to equity and social justice set a compelling tone for the inspiring conversations that followed.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Councilwoman Heather Hutt (District 10) for her sponsorship of this program. A scheduling conflict prevented her from attending, but she was with us in spirit.

Take a moment to explore the photos and video clips below. We look forward to continuing this dialogue with Activism, Social Justice & Jazz - Part III in the new year. Stay tuned for details!

L-R: Capri Maddox, Esq., Executive Director and General Manager, Los Angeles City Civil Rights Department; Dr. Dawn M. Norfleet, Composer, Musician, and Jazz Studies Faculty, UC Irvine; Dr. Ronald C. McCurdy, Assistant Dean of DE&I and Jazz Studies Faculty, USC; Dr. Eddie Meadows, Professor Emeritus, San Diego State University and Adjunct Professor, UCLA; Dr. Jody D. Amour, Constitutional Law Professor, USC

Diane Robertson, Esq., Executive Director, Leimert Park Jazz Festival

Isaac Bryan, Assemblyman, District 55

Panelists: Capri Maddox, Esq. and Dr. Dawn M. Norfleet

Moderator: Dr. Ronald C. McCurdy

Panelist: Dr. Eddie Meadows

Panelist: Dr. Jody D. Amour

The Kenneth Brown Collective

L-R: Derrick Butler 🎹; Joshua Childress 🎷; Kenneth Brown II 🎺; Skylar Allingham 🥁; Isaac Green 🎻

Bandleader: Kenneth Brown II

L-R: Isaac Green; Derrick Butler; Kenneth Brown II; Dr. Ronald C. McCurdy; Capri Maddox, Esq.; Diane Robertson, Esq.; Dr. Eddie Meadows; Dr. Dawn M. Norfleet

L-R: Avis Ridley-Thomas; Dr. Mark Ridley-Thomas; Diane Robertson, Esq.; Tamica Washington; Lula Washington

Guests said...



"Loved the speakers--they were so knowledgeable and exciting to listen to. I also loved the music, of course." - Lenore B.

"Excellent commentary and exciting young musicians!" - Bryant S.

"The back and forth between [the music] performance and discussion was great! The panel provided excellent insights from social and music perspectives. I came away with notes for follow up." - Wilfred G.

CLICK THE LINKS BELOW TO WATCH VIDEO CLIPS

Videos: Melvin Blackwell

MORE FROM LPJF360

Don't miss Sunday Jazz at ORA on the fourth Sunday of each month!

Whether you're a jazz lover, a musician ready to jam, or simply looking for the perfect way to spend your Sunday afternoon, ORA Urban Cafe is where you want to be! Get ready to enjoy incredible live jazz, great vibes, and a delicious menu crafted with love, using only the finest planet-friendly ingredients!

Remaining 2024 Dates:

November 24th and December 22nd

Doors 3:30 PM | Host Band 4-5 PM | Open Jam Session 5-6 PM

Tickets available at the door but, if you want a chance to win festival swag,

grab your tickets in advance at the links below!

Host bands for the 2025 series will be announced soon. Stay tuned!

ABOUT LPJF360

Leimert Park Jazz Festival 360 (LPJF360) is a year-round initiative expanding the impact of Leimert Park Jazz Festival through enriching educational programs and live performances across Los Angeles. In collaboration with diverse partners, LPJF360 is dedicated to celebrating and preserving jazz culture, supporting emerging jazz artists, and cultivating the next generation of jazz enthusiasts. Through thought- provoking panel discussions, immersive workshops, and intimate concerts, LPJF360 enhances the city’s cultural landscape, making jazz more accessible and engaging for all.

SUPPORT LEIMERT PARK JAZZ FESTIVAL

Leimert Park Jazz Festival recently received its 501(c)3 tax exempt status from the IRS! Your tax deductible donation will help ensure the rich culture of jazz and community-driven arts remain accessible to all.

Your contribution will help us:

• Preserve and celebrate the rich tradition of jazz through our free summer festival.
• Provide performance platforms and scholarships for emerging jazz artists.
• Enrich communities through year-round free and affordable arts programs that educate, inspire, and bring people together.

Thank you for believing in our mission and supporting the transformative power of jazz. With your help, we can create an even greater impact in the year ahead. We’re grateful to have you on this journey with us!

Leimert Park Jazz Festival™ is a 501(c)3 tax exempt non-profit organization.

(Federal Tax ID #: 93-4239725)

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