VALDOSTA – The Southern Georgia Black Chambers, in partnership with the City of Valdosta, will present the city’s inaugural Black History Month Parade, a milestone event celebrating the rich tapestry of Black history and culture in the community. The parade will take place on Saturday, Feb. 22, at noon. 

The parade route will wind its way through the heart of southside Valdosta, beginning at Pinevale Elementary School and proceeding northward along Old Lake Park Road before turning westward on Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, then culminating past the city’s Martin Luther King Jr. monument. 

“We are excited about the opportunity to bring this historic event to Valdosta,” said DeWayne Johnson, president/CEO of the Southern Georgia Black Chambers. “This parade will represent the strength and resilience of our African-American community, and we invite everyone to join us in honoring the contributions of Black Americans in this City and throughout world history.” 

According to the organization, walking groups, performance ensembles, Divine 9 fraternities and sororities, college and high school clubs, marching bands, drill teams, athletic groups, and small businesses are all welcome to register. Parade entries can include decorated vehicles, creative floats, or enthusiastic groups of walkers. 

The City of Valdosta is a key partner in this initiative, with various city departments, including public works and public safety. 

“I am thrilled to see the progress of the recognition and the acknowledgment of the black community here in Valdosta. It is a positive step in the cohesion of all of the Valdosta community,” said City of Valdosta Councilwoman Sandra Tooley. “Valdosta is a gem of a city, and I think the SGBC Black History Month Parade will be an additional welcome to bring out the sparkle on the gem.” 

The deadline to register a parade entry is Feb. 15. Staging for the parade will begin at 10:30 a.m. at Pinevale Elementary School. 

To join the celebration and register your parade entry or learn more about this exciting event, visit https://www.sgablackchambers.org/bhm-parade-vld.