Madison College Presents the Black Stars Experience

Step into a dynamic, TED-style experience celebrating voice, visibility, and vision. Power in Presence brings together Black storytellers, creatives, and community leaders—including Percy Brown, Julia Grace-Saffold (Life‑Work on Purpose), Dr. Taysheedra Allen (Birth From Within), Dr. Rainey Briggs (Beyond the Label), Dr. Jasmine Zapata (Life is A Battle and We Will Win), and Deborah Biddle (More Patch Jobs: Stop Renovating Exclusion and Start Designing for Belonging)—for an evening designed to inspire, challenge, and uplift through the power of shared stories and lived experience. Biddle will also moderate the Q and A. 

Through powerful narratives and critical reflection, this Juneteenth-inspired event honors a legacy of resilience while amplifying voices shaping the present and future of Black communities. Expect an engaging atmosphere that blends storytelling, cultural insight, and meaningful dialogue around identity, equity, healing, and leadership.

More than an event, this is a call to show up fully and stand in your truth. Presence is power. Join us in celebrating Black brilliance and reimagining what’s possible—together.

This experience is part of the Juneteenth celebration organized by Kujichagulia – Madison Center for Self-Determination, which has hosted Madison’s annual Juneteenth celebration for over 30 years.