Chicago’s 84th annual back-to-school Bud Billiken Parade

T.I. and his wife Tiny on the parade route at The Bud Billiken Parade in Chicago (2012). Photo: Zondra Hughes.
T.I. and his wife Tiny on the parade route at The Bud Billiken Parade in Chicago (2012). Photo: Zondra Hughes.

Today, Chicago hosts its 84th Annual Bud Billiken Back to School Parade. It’s the largest African American parade in the country promoting family, education, and a safe return to school for our children. Taking place on the south side of Chicago on King Drive, the parade begins on 35th Street and ends at Washington Park. This year also marks the 50th Anniversary of the March on Washington where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered the “I Have A Dream” speech.  So the spirit moving throughout this year’s parade is infectious and uplifting.


With a number of great sponsors offering their continued support, the parade continues to march on and shed positive energy throughout the community. Chicago is facing an extremely devastating epidemic of violence, so it’s refreshing to see the city coming together and shining light on the importance of education while broadcasting the beauty of our youth and their talents. –lili


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