About the Annual
"Performing with a Purpose"
Juneteenth Celebration

Established in June 2021

Join us for the "Performing with a Purpose" Juneteenth Celebration, an event born from our understanding of the community's need to connect, celebrate, and break free from the isolation of quarantine. Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, commemorates June 19th, 1865, the day when Union troops arrived in Texas to announce the freedom of over 250,000 enslaved Africans - a full two years after President Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation. Tragically, it took 156 years for Juneteenth to be recognized as a national holiday in America, which finally came to pass on June 17th, 2021, when President Biden signed it into law. This historical milestone gives us even more reason to celebrate our freedom and heritage. Join us in honoring this significant day in our history and in celebrating the spirit of freedom and community!

Our Story

In March 2020, the pandemic brought Buffalo, New York and the world to a standstill, introducing a new era of quarantine and uncertainty. Amidst this challenging time, The Natural Hustle Entertainment was established with a vision to restore a sense of community and normalcy.

As we approached the one-year mark of the pandemic, the traditional 45th annual Juneteenth parade in Buffalo was unable to proceed due to COVID-19 restrictions. Recognizing the community's need for connection and celebration, we launched our first "Performing with a Purpose" Juneteenth Celebration, meticulously planned to adhere to all safety protocols. This event was more than just a gathering; it was a beacon of hope and unity, offering a safe space for the community to come together and celebrate resilience and freedom.

Year after year, the "Performing with a Purpose" Juneteenth events have grown, becoming a cherished tradition in our community. Each celebration, bigger and more vibrant than the last, stands as a testament to our commitment to fostering joy and togetherness, even in the most challenging times. Through these events, we continue to honor the spirit of Juneteenth, strengthening our bonds and commemorating our journey towards a future of shared celebration and resilience.