Celebrating Black Music in Boston

This is a special post written by Charles Warren, Curriculum Developer at Triangle. Charlie is also a member of Triangle’s Racial Equity Committee (REC) and Disability Justice Task Force (DJTF). As part of our commitment to the work of the REC and DJTF, we will be sharing more information with you on subjects related to racial equity and disability justice. This post continues our series dedicated to calling attention to the contributions of people with disabilities to American history.

June marks Black Music Month, a national observance recognizing the significant contributions of Black artists to music. Initiated in 1979 by President Jimmy Carter following advocacy from figures like Kenny Gamble and Dyana Williams, the month celebrates the diverse genres shaped by Black creativity.

In Boston, the Boston Art & Music Soul (BAMS) Festival is a key event for Black Music Month. Scheduled for June 28, 2025 at Playstead Field in Franklin Park, BAMS Fest will feature artists such as Lalah Hathaway, Little Brother, and Durand Bernarr, alongside local talent like DJ Bruno.

Beyond its musical lineup, BAMS Fest is notable for its focus on accessibility and equity. The festival implements various features to accommodate attendees with disabilities and underscores a broader commitment to inclusivity:

• Physical Accessibility: Playstead Field is wheelchair accessible, with wheelchair-accessible portable restrooms on the festival grounds. Golf carts are provided for transport from park entrances to the main festival area. An MBTA ADA shuttle drop-off point is located directly on-site, offering more convenient public transport access.  
• Inclusivity and Equity: BAMS Fest centers the experiences of Blackness and belonging, welcoming all attendees regardless of race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, gender presentation, sexual orientation, age, body size, disability, appearance, religion, citizenship, or pregnancy. This commitment highlights their dedication to creating an inclusive and equitable environment for all.
• Comfort and Respite: The festival provides a covered tent with chairs and a water refill station for rest and rehydration, important for those needing breaks from direct sun or extensive movement.
• Designated Seating: Designated seating areas are available for patrons with disabilities who may be accompanied by one guest per patron. 
• Service Animals: ADA-recognized service animals are permitted on festival grounds, provided they are harnessed, leashed, or tethered, unless these devices interfere with the animal’s work or the individual’s disability prevents their use.
• Financial Accessibility (Solidarity Tickets): While the festival is typically a ticketed event, Solidarity Tickets are offered and cost $10. This initiative aims to make the festival financially accessible, aligning with their broader equity goals.

BAMS Fest’s commitment to accessibility and equity ensures that its celebration of Black music and artistry is inclusive and welcoming to a wider audience, aligning with its mission to break down barriers and create a culturally rich experience for everyone. Click here to learn more.