Cierra Lemott 
Chicago’s south and west sides are often incorrectly depicted in the media. Englewood is a prime example of this misjudgment.
Despite the negative reputation that the community has had for decades, events such as the Englewood Music Fest are changing the narrative and showing that there’s more to our community than violence and the bad things being portrayed.
Located at 6301 S. Halsted on the Kennedy King College campus, this free community festival was a time to remember. Musical artists such as BigMouf’Bo, Zion Ali, Kelly Price, Lenny Williams and Waka Flocka Flame performed and drew a large crowd.
Malcom Butler, an Englewood resident, heard about this event via social media. When interviewed, he expressed his excitement about seeing rapper Waka Flocka. He spoke his praises of his community as well.
“I want [people] to know that Englewood is a really great community. Since I come from Englewood, I know it has ups and downs but the majority is good. You have good programs, sports programs, great colleges, great high schools. Englewood is a great community in general.”
The Saturday, September 14, event was sponsored by DCASE, DCFS, Englewood Arts Collective, Greater Englewood Community Development Corporation, Wintrust Bank, Englewood Community Action Council, Teamwork Englewood, McDonald’s, McLaurin, CSX Transportation, Cook County Health and Grow Greater Englewood.
In addition to the performances, there was food from restaurants such as Harold’s Chicken, S2 Grill and more. There were activations and various booths comprised of local businesses and organizations providing free resources to community members.
Free fresh produce was given out in addition to school supplies and health and wellness screenings. There were stations for making your protest signs, bubbles and balloons for the kids, a large mat for rollerskating and much more.
Cynamon Lloyd, a south sider, enjoyed the community aspect of the festival. She said her favorite part of the event was “the fact that we all came together and it’s peaceful.” She also said she’s looking forward to future events in the community.
If you missed out this year, don’t worry! This is an annual festival that will be returning next summer. A time was had and I can’t wait for the next one.
By Cierra Lemott, Columbia College Chicago alum
Instagram: @kodakscamera
X: @LemottCierra
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