The ICA partners with Thaddeus Miles—photographer, community activist, and founder of the Black Joy Project—to kick off a weekend of festivities centered around the third annual Black Joy Day in the City of Boston. The holiday exists to highlight Black music, poetry, and considerate discussions on restorative justice and the empowerment of Black people everywhere. Black Joy Day is not just a celebration, but a form of resistance. As Imani Perry writes, “Joy is not found in the absence of pain and suffering. It exists through it.” This outdoor program features performances by some of the city’s best talents, including DJ WhySham, Eph See, and Amandi Music.

Black Joy Day is FREE, and tickets are not required to attend the performances! If you would like to visit the ICA galleries, please reserve a free timed ticket in advance, while available.