Parisian Soul: Celebrate The Gift of Black Excellence

Team fundraiser

Zhelinrentice Scott and Adebola Oshipitan are organizing this fundraiser.

Donation protected

Join us in honoring the legacy of African American success in Paris, a city that has been a haven and inspiration for Black artists, writers, and performers for over 225 years. No other group of Americans shares such a unique and historic connection with Paris, making this African-American Weekend a momentous occasion for all Americans to celebrate and cheer on our athletes in the Olympic Games.

Imagine a World Without...

Mac and Cheese or French Fries! Send your compliments to James Hemings, a patriot and pioneering chef who endured slavery and brought French culinary techniques to America.
Movie Stars like Josephine Baker, Denzel Washington, Viola Davis, and Omar Sy! Applaud the showmanship of Josephine Baker, the first global Black-American movie star, entertainer, and civil rights activist.
The NAACP! Acknowledge the contributions of W.E.B. Du Bois, the sociologist, historian, and civil rights activist.
The Poetry of Langston Hughes! Snap for Langston Hughes, the renowned poet and leader of the Harlem Renaissance who found inspiration in Paris.
Groundbreaking Novels like "Native Son"! Recognize the influence of Richard Wright, the influential novelist and essayist.
The Harlem Renaissance's Artistic Voice! Celebrate Claude McKay, poet and writer, a seminal figure in the Harlem Renaissance.
Crime Fiction That Speaks to Social Issues! Appreciate Chester Himes, the novelist known for his crime fiction.
Powerful Essays and Novels on Race! Honor James Baldwin, the esteemed writer and social critic.
Acclaimed Art Recognized Internationally! Admire Henry O. Tanner, the acclaimed painter who achieved international success.
Olympic Gold Medals for Black Athletes! Cheer for William DeHart Hubbard, the first African American to win an Olympic gold medal in Paris 1924, precisely 100 years ago this summer.
Iconic Nightclubs That Welcomed the Elite and Creatives! Relive the legacy of Ada "Bricktop" Smith, the nightclub owner who created legendary spaces in Paris.

The Historic Connection

For over two centuries, Paris has been a beacon of hope and a sanctuary for African American artists and intellectuals escaping the oppressive conditions of Jim Crow America. This unique bond has allowed Black Americans to flourish creatively, contributing significantly to both American and French culture.

The Celebration: 225 Years in the Making

As part of the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2024, Paris is set to host a major fan zone celebrating African athletes. In the heart of this festive space, the public will celebrate alongside African Olympic athletes, watch the Games on big screens, and enjoy a rich program of artistic, cultural, and sporting events. Celebrity Chef, historian, and visionary Chef Ashbell has joined forces with a dream team (Zhe Scott, The SEO Queen, Terra Renee, African American Women in Cinema, Adebola Oshy, and more) to celebrate long-overlooked heroes like James Hemings, the enslaved chef who shaped American cuisine and William DeHart Hubbard, who won Olympic gold in Paris exactly 100 years ago.

Event Highlights

Black American Cinema Film Festival: A vibrant celebration of Black storytelling in films, with special opening night insights and treats.

Josephine Baker Fundraiser: Honoring the first global Black-American movie star, featuring the ‘Honor Josephine Baker Awards Petition’ for a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Includes a VIP Canapes & Cocktails Reception hosted by Terra Renee & Chef Ashbell, with Josephine Baker's family receiving the Josephine Baker Luminary Award.

Pop-up Soul Food Restaurant Tribute: A Morehouse Man in Paris: Celebrating Leroy Haynes, whose iconic soul food restaurant hosted famous figures like Josephine Baker and Sidney Poitier.

For a more detailed overview of the entire African American Weekend, click here.

Why We Need Your Support

This entire celebration culminates in our grand event, Parisian Soul: Celebrating Black Excellence in the City of Lights. We invite you to help us honor the legacy and contributions of the extraordinary individuals we are highlighting. Your support will not only celebrate the accomplishments of the African American diaspora but also shine a light on our future by understanding where we come from.

Be a Part of History

This is the first-ever commemoration of James Hemings' incredible impact since the successful film James Hemings: Ghost in America’s Kitchen

Fans of Josephine Baker are petitioning for the iconic foreign film star to be recognized by the Academy Awards and the Golden Globes. The fans recognized that the Academy did not have a Foreign Category until 1956 and the Golden Globes was not formed until 1944, ten years after Ms. Baker starred in her first foreign motion picture. However, since she paved the way for people of color to have opportunities in major motion pictures and her standing as a global international icon, it is only befitting to have her recognized in this manner. Sign the petition.

Support a Powerful Movement

We're fighting to give African Americans the recognition they deserve. Experience a once-in-a-lifetime event: Join Chef Ashbell and the Mayor of L'lle Saint-Denis for a celebration unlike any other during the Olympics.

Donation Tiers

Your generous donations will support the event in various impactful ways. We have created unique donation tiers to reflect the spirit and history of the event:

Bronze Medalist: $50 – Supporter

Your contribution helps fund our cultural exhibits.

Receive a thank-you email and digital certificate of appreciation.

Silver Medalist: $100 – Friend of Paris

Your donation assists in organizing educational events.

Receive a thank-you email, digital certificate, and a shout-out on our social media platforms.

Gold Medalist: $250 – Parisian Patron

Your generosity helps bring distinguished guests and honorees to the event.Receive all Silver Level benefits plus a commemorative online event poster.

Platinum Medalist: $500 – City of Light Luminary

Your support funds logistical arrangements and key aspects of the celebration. Receive all Gold Level benefits plus exclusive access to behind-the-scenes content and a VIP event invitation.

Diamond Medalist: $1000+ – Legacy Maker

Your significant contribution ensures the overall success and impact of the event. Receive all Platinum Level benefits plus special recognition during the event, a personalized thank-you video from organizers, and a feature on our website.

For large brands looking to make a more sizeable donation, please see our Sponsorship Opportunities and email Chef Ashbell.

Follow Our Facebook Page

Follow our Facebook page to learn more and stay up to date with the latest news, gifts, and exclusive updates.

Join Us in Celebrating Our Heritage

Your donation is more than just a contribution; it's an investment in the legacy and future of African American culture. By donating, you are helping to bridge the Atlantic and celebrate an empowering African American Parisian experience. Let’s honor the past, celebrate the present, and inspire future generations.

Donate Now to be a part of this historic celebration!