Jojo's Ventures

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Jojo's Ventures

A black-owned NYC tourism company that provide historical walking tours and cultural experiences.

From the common sightseeing tourist, history lovers and everything in between--Jojo's Ventures have something to offer for everyone." Tours can be customized for private groups, education groups and parties.

09/13/2024

I am elated to announce that Jojo's Ventures will be featured at this year's Black Travel Summit!

From October 10-13, the Black Travel Summit will be hosting their 3rd annual Global Summit at the Hyatt Centric Las Olas! Join us in celebrating , because we deserve nothing less, and check out businesses that reflect a small spectrum of innovation within our communities.

Discussions include the power of Black tourism and development, elevating Black stories in travel, becoming an influencer/content creator, wealth building and more! Network, vibe out to some afrobeats and travel-inspired cocktails, and join us as we stay in Black Travel.

Register today at blacktravelsummit.com/global-summit and help us in creating a table for ourselves!

07/27/2024

Roscoe Lee Browne was a distinguished actor, director, and narrator known for his deep, resonant voice and commanding presence. Over his prolific career, he broke barriers and became a celebrated figure in television, film, and theater.

Browne appeared in numerous TV shows, becoming a familiar face to many through his memorable roles in popular series such as “The Cosby Show,” “A Different World,” “Sanford and Son,” and “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.” His guest appearances were notable for their sophistication and gravitas, often portraying characters with a commanding presence.

In film, Browne’s credits include roles in “The Cowboys” (1972) alongside John Wayne and “Logan’s Run” (1976). He was also a respected stage actor, winning an Obie Award for his performance in “The Old Glory” (1965) and receiving critical acclaim for his work in plays by major playwrights like August Wilson and Shakespeare. Additionally, Browne’s distinctive voice made him a sought-after narrator for documentaries, commercials, and animated films, such as “The Legend of John Henry” (1977) and Disney’s “Oliver & Company” (1988).

Browne was known for his articulate and dignified performances, which helped to elevate the portrayal of Black characters on screen and stage. His contributions to the arts were recognized with numerous awards, including a Daytime Emmy Award for his guest performance on “The Cosby Show.”

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07/23/2024

Explore one of Brooklyn’s most culturally significant neighborhoods, known for its stunning Victorian architecture and its pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement in New York City.

You’ll learn about notable residents like Jackie Robinson and Richard Wright, and uncover the stories that make Bed-Stuy unique.

From it being the earliest free land for enslaved African-Americans to the migration of Eastern European and Caribbean immigrants chasing the American dream, Bed-Stuy has the current day ambition to connect modern culture with historic feel.

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07/19/2024

Ossie Davis and Ruby Dee were iconic figures in American theater, film, and television, known not only for their exceptional talent but also for their activism and contributions to the Civil Rights Movement. They were married for nearly 60 years, and their partnership both on and off the screen left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry and the fight for social justice.

Ossie Davis was a distinguished actor, director, playwright, and social activist. He began his career in theater and quickly made a name for himself with his powerful performances and commanding presence. Davis was known for his roles in films such as “The Cardinal” (1963), “Do the Right Thing” (1989), and “Jungle Fever” (1991). He also directed and starred in “Cotton Comes to Harlem” (1970), a significant film in the blaxploitation genre.

Ruby Dee was an acclaimed actress, poet, playwright, and activist. She gained prominence with her role in the 1950 film “The Jackie Robinson Story,” and her career spanned over six decades. Dee was known for her performances in films like “A Raisin in the Sun” (1961), “Do the Right Thing” (1989), and “American Gangster” (2007). She also had a significant presence on television, with roles in shows like “Guiding Light” and “Peyton Place.”

Together, Davis and Dee were celebrated for their collaboration in numerous projects, including the critically acclaimed film “Do the Right Thing,” directed by Spike Lee, where they portrayed a married couple. Their work extended beyond the screen as they were deeply involved in the Civil Rights Movement, marching with Martin Luther King Jr. and speaking out against racial injustice.

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07/17/2024

The Summer of Soul, also known as the Harlem Cultural Festival, was a pivotal event in the history of Black music and culture. Held over six weekends in the summer of 1969 at Mount Morris Park (now Marcus Garvey Park) in Harlem, New York, this festival celebrated African American music, culture, and unity. Often overshadowed by Woodstock, which took place the same year, the Harlem Cultural Festival was a vibrant display of Black pride and artistic excellence.

The festival featured an impressive lineup of artists across various genres, including gospel, soul, jazz, blues, and funk. Notable performers included Stevie Wonder, Nina Simone, B.B. King, Sly and the Family Stone, Gladys Knight & the Pips, Mahalia Jackson, and The 5th Dimension.

The Harlem Cultural Festival was deeply intertwined with the social and political movements of the 1960s. It provided a platform for the Black community to come together and celebrate their heritage and achievements amidst a backdrop of civil rights struggles.

The Harlem Cultural Festival captured the spirit of a community asserting its place in society and contributed to the broader narrative of Black resistance, resilience, and creativity.

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07/11/2024

The Wattstax Music Festival, often called the “Black Woodstock,” was a landmark event in African American cultural history, held on August 20, 1972, at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.

Organized by Stax Records, the festival commemorated the seventh anniversary of the 1965 Watts Rebellion, a pivotal event in the Civil Rights Movement triggered by systemic racism, police brutality, and economic inequality in the Watts neighborhood of Los Angeles.

Wattstax was more than just a music festival; it was a celebration of African American culture, resilience, and community.

The festival showcased the richness of Black music, featuring soul, gospel, blues, and funk performances by iconic artists such as Isaac Hayes, The Staple Singers, Rufus Thomas, Albert King, and Carla Thomas. These artists were instrumental in shaping the sound and spirit of the era.

With over 100,000 attendees, Wattstax was one of the largest gatherings of African Americans at that time. It was a peaceful event, emphasizing unity and pride within the Black community.

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07/09/2024

Explore the Rich History of Central Harlem with Our Historic Walking Tour 🚶🚶‍♀️🚶‍♂️

Discover the past and diverse cultural influences of Central Harlem, a village in North Manhattan with roots tracing back to Dutch colonists. Named after Haarlem in the Netherlands, this area is filled with history and heritage.

Our Central Harlem Historic Walking Tour will take you through the streets and stories that shaped this iconic neighborhood.

Join us as we delve into the contributions and legacies of the many cultural groups that have called Harlem home. From its Dutch beginnings to the dynamic melting pot it is today, you’ll uncover the rich history that makes Central Harlem a unique community.

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07/04/2024

Happy Fourth of July 🎉🎉🎉 as always we like to give historical context about important holidays.

The Fourth of July commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. This day marks the colonies’ declaration of independence from British rule and is celebrated with fireworks, parades, concerts, and various patriotic displays.

For African Americans, the Fourth of July has a complex history. While the day represents freedom and independence, it historically did not apply to enslaved African Americans, who remained in bo***ge for nearly another century. This contradiction was poignantly addressed by Frederick Douglass in his famous 1852 speech, “What to the Slave Is the Fourth of July?” In it, Douglass highlighted the irony of celebrating liberty in a nation that still practiced slavery, calling for true equality and justice for all.

In modern times, the Fourth of July can serve as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for civil rights and equality. Many African Americans celebrate the holiday while also reflecting on the contributions and sacrifices made by Black Americans throughout history. It is a time to honor the progress made and recognize the work still needed to achieve true freedom and equality for everyone in the United States.

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07/02/2024

Augusta Savage was a prominent sculptor, educator, and arts advocate, who played a significant role during the Harlem Renaissance. Savage moved to New York City in 1921 to pursue her artistic ambitions.

Savage quickly became an influential figure within the Harlem Renaissance. She was known for her realistic and sensitive portrayal of African American subjects, often sculpting busts and figures that highlighted the dignity and beauty of Black people. One of her most famous works is “Gamin,” a bust of a young African American boy that won her critical acclaim and a scholarship to study in Paris.

Beyond her artistic achievements, Savage was a dedicated educator and mentor. She founded the Savage Studio of Arts and Crafts in Harlem, where she taught and inspired a new generation of African American artists. Her commitment to nurturing talent extended to her role as the first director of the Harlem Community Art Center, which she helped establish with funding from the Works Progress Administration (WPA).
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06/28/2024

Lorraine Hansberry was an influential playwright and writer, best known for her groundbreaking work “A Raisin in the Sun,” which was the first play by an African American woman to be produced on Broadway. Hansberry’s work often explored themes of race, class, and social justice, reflecting her own experiences and the broader struggles of the African American community.

Hansberry was also a notable figure in the LGBTQ+ community, and was involved in the early LGBTQ+ rights movement. Hansberry wrote under a pseudonym for “The Ladder,” the first nationally distributed le***an publication in the United States, where she discussed issues of gender and sexual identity. Her letters and essays revealed her deep commitment to advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and her understanding of the intersectionality between racial and sexual oppression.

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06/26/2024

The New York City Draft Riots of 1863 were a violent disturbance sparked by the implementation of the Conscription Act, which allowed the Union Army to draft men into service during the Civil War.

Primarily fueled by the working-class, predominantly Irish immigrants, the riots were driven by resentment over being forced to fight in a war they believed primarily benefited the wealthy and the abolition of slavery, which they feared would lead to job competition with freed African Americans.

The riots lasted from July 13 to July 16, resulting in widespread destruction and significant loss of life, particularly targeting Black communities.

The Draft Riots highlight the intense racial and class tensions of the period, underscoring the complexities and resistance faced in the fight for African American freedom and equality, a struggle that Juneteenth symbolizes in its celebration of emancipation.

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06/25/2024

I am pleased to announce that Jojo's Ventures was recently awarded the Tripadvisor 2024 Traveler's Choice Award!

I am extremely grateful for the reviews from my guests and the enjoyment of my tours and experiences!

This is only the beginning!
MUCH more to come!

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06/24/2024

Marsha P. Johnson was an important figure in the LGBTQ+ rights movement and is best known for her role in the Stonewall Riots of 1969.

Born and raised in New Jersey, Johnson moved to New York City, where she became a beloved presence in the Greenwich Village community. As a Black transgender woman and drag queen, she faced significant discrimination but channeled her experiences into activism.

Johnson was at the forefront of the Stonewall Riots, a series of protests that erupted in response to a police raid on the Stonewall Inn, a popular gay bar. These riots are widely regarded as a catalyst for the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement.

Beyond Stonewall, Johnson co-founded the Gay Liberation Front and the Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries (STAR) alongside Sylvia Rivera, focusing on providing support and advocacy for homeless LGBTQ+ youth and transgender individuals.

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06/19/2024

Juneteenth, commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. It marks the day in 1865 when Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced General Order No. 3, declaring that all enslaved people were free, in accordance with the Emancipation Proclamation issued by President Abraham Lincoln on January 1, 1863.

This announcement came more than two years after the proclamation, due to the slow spread of information and resistance in Confederate states.

Juneteenth has since evolved into a day of celebration and reflection, featuring parades, cultural festivals, educational events, and family gatherings. It symbolizes the end of slavery in the U.S. and honors the resilience, culture, and contributions of African Americans.

In 2021, Juneteenth was officially recognized as a federal holiday, underscoring its significance in American history and its ongoing relevance in the fight for equality and justice.

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06/18/2024

Victoria Earle Mathews was a significant African American writer, lecturer, and social reformer. Born into slavery in Fort Valley, Georgia, she and her family were freed following the Emancipation Proclamation.

Mathews moved to New York City, where she largely educated herself and became deeply involved in advocating for African American women’s rights and education. One of her notable accomplishments was the founding of the White Rose Mission in 1897, an organization dedicated to helping young Black women who had migrated to the city.

The mission provided housing, job training, and education, aiming to empower women to achieve self-sufficiency. Mathews was also an active member of the National Association of Colored Women and worked tirelessly to improve the social and economic conditions of African Americans through her writings and public speeches.

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06/15/2024

Dr. Julius Garvey, is a distinguished thoracic and cardiovascular surgeon, as well as an activist committed to carrying forward the legacy of his father, Marcus Garvey.

Educated at the University of London and McGill University, Dr. Garvey has had a notable medical career, holding prestigious positions in hospitals across the United States. He has contributed to the advancement of surgical techniques and has been recognized for his expertise and dedication to patient care.

Beyond his medical accomplishments, Dr. Garvey is deeply involved in promoting African heritage and unity, echoing the Pan-Africanist ideals championed by his father. He has been an advocate for social justice, education, and the empowerment of people of African descent.

Through lectures, public engagements, and community initiatives, Dr. Garvey continues to inspire and mobilize individuals around the world, emphasizing the importance of cultural pride and historical awareness. His work bridges the fields of medicine and activism, making him a prominent figure in both arenas.

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06/12/2024

Happy Caribbean Heritage Month! 🎉🌴

Let’s celebrate the cultures, rich histories, and incredible contributions of the Caribbean community. From the music and food to the art and historical importance of the Caribbean nations.

Caribbean heritage adds so much flavor to our world. Join us in honoring this beautiful heritage all month long!

Which beautiful Caribbean country are you from? 👀☀️

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”

06/06/2024

As Juneteenth approached we would like to shed light on important figures. Henry Highland Garnet was an African American abolitionist, minister, and educator whose work and advocacy laid important groundwork for the eventual emancipation of enslaved African Americans, celebrated as Juneteenth.

Garnet was born into slavery in Maryland but escaped with his family to New York in 1824. He became an influential figure in the abolitionist movement, known for his powerful oratory and uncompromising stance against slavery. Garnet’s most famous speech, “An Address to the Slaves of the United States of America,” delivered at the 1843 National Negro Convention in Buffalo, New York, called for enslaved people to rise up and resist their oppression. This radical call to action distinguished him from other abolitionists of the time who favored more gradual or peaceful approaches.

Although Garnet did not directly contribute to the events of Juneteenth, which commemorates the announcement of the abolition of slavery in Texas on June 19, 1865, his tireless advocacy for the immediate end of slavery and the rights of African Americans was integral to the broader abolitionist movement. Garnet’s work helped to create the conditions that made emancipation possible.

In the years following the Civil War, Garnet continued to advocate for the rights of African Americans. In 1865, he became the first African American to deliver a sermon in the House of Representatives, where he spoke about the end of slavery and the need for continued progress towards equality.

As Juneteenth approaches, it is important to remember and honor figures like Henry Highland Garnet, whose courage and activism played a crucial role in the fight against slavery.

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06/04/2024

Ellis Haizlip was an African American television producer, known for his significant contributions to the representation of Black culture and arts in American media.

He is best known for creating and producing the groundbreaking television show “Soul!” which aired from 1968 to 1973.

“Soul!” was a revolutionary program that showcased African American music, literature, dance, and politics. It featured a wide range of guests, including artists like Stevie Wonder, Patti LaBelle, James Baldwin, and Nikki Giovanni. The show was notable for its unfiltered and authentic representation of Black culture, serving as a vital platform for Black voices during a time of significant social and political change.

In addition to his work on “Soul!,” Haizlip was a representation for LGBTQ+. As an openly gay Black man, he navigated and challenged the homophobia prevalent in both the entertainment industry and society at large.

Although his sexuality was not a focal point of his professional work, his identity and experiences influenced his inclusive and progressive approach to media production.

Haizlip’s commitment to showcasing a diverse range of perspectives extended to the LGBTQ+ community, and his work helped pave the way for greater visibility and acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals in media.

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05/30/2024

Patti LaBelle recently celebrated her 80th birthday, on May 24th. Renowned as the “Godmother of Soul,” LaBelle first achieved fame as the lead vocalist of the group Patti LaBelle and the Bluebelles, which later became LaBelle, known for the hit “Lady Marmalade.”

Her powerful voice and dynamic stage presence have earned her two Grammy Awards and numerous other accolades. LaBelle’s solo career includes timeless hits like “If Only You Knew,” “New Attitude,” and “On My Own,” showcasing her versatility across genres such as R&B, pop, and gospel

Beyond music, she has excelled as an actress in television and film, authored several cookbooks, and launched a successful line of food products.

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+19293167080

Website

http://www.jojosventuresnyc.com/

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Videos

In the face of adversity, the African American community persisted in their pursuit of freedom and equality. The Jim Crow era, characterized by racial segregation and discrimination, cast a shadow over Juneteenth celebrations. The communities faced immense challenges in openly commemorating their emancipation due to the oppressive laws and societal barriers imposed upon them. Additionally, the economic hardships brought about by the Great Depression made it difficult for families to gather and partake in festivities. However, the civil rights movement breathed new life into Juneteenth. Driven by the desire for justice and equality, leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. strategically aligned their activism with the significance of Juneteenth. The Poor People’s March, scheduled to coincide with the date, revitalized the celebrations. Participants in the march carried the spirit of Juneteenth back to their communities, reigniting the flame of remembrance and resilience. Today, Juneteenth stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of the African American community. It is a time for reflection, celebration, and a renewed commitment to the ongoing fight for justice and equality. Let us honor the past, embrace the present, and shape a future where freedom and equity are embraced by all. Book our walking tours and cultural experiences on our website at www.jojosventuresnyc.com Follow us on social media: FB: Jojo’s Ventures IG: @jojosventuresnyc TT: jojosventuresnyc - - - - - #juneteenth #juneteenth2023 #juneteenthcelebration #juneteenthhistory #blackhistorymonth #blackhistory365 #blackhistoryfacts #blackhistoryiseveryday jojosventuresnyc #ventureNYCwithjojo #morethanjustthecity #nyctourism #nyctours #harlemtours #brooklyntours #queenstours #manhattantours #bronxtours #statenislandtours #nyctour #fredrickdouglass #fredrickdouglas #jimcrow #poorpeoplesmarch #mlk #blackhistoryisamericanhistory #blackhistoryisnow

Juneteenth Series: As Juneteenth approaches join us as we embark on a powerful series, capturing the essence of freedom and resilience of African Americans in NYC. Let’s celebrate this historic milestone together and honor the rich heritage of Juneteenth. Stay tuned for captivating stories that amplify the voices of those who’ve paved the way to a more inclusive future. Book our walking tours and cultural experiences on our website at www.jojosventuresnyc.com Follow us on social media: FB: Jojo’s Ventures IG: @jojosventuresnyc TT: jojosventuresnyc - - - - - #juneteenth #juneteenth2023 #juneteenthcelebration #juneteenthhistory #blackhistorymonth #blackhistory365 #blackhistoryfacts #blackhistoryiseveryday jojosventuresnyc #ventureNYCwithjojo #morethanjustthecity #nyctourism #nyctours #harlemtours #brooklyntours #queenstours #manhattantours #bronxtours #statenislandtours #nyctour

Panamanian Pride! Jojo tells the story of his Panamanian Heritage. Come enjoy the Panamanian Day Parade in Crown Heights. One of the many neighborhoods of Afro-Caribbean culture in New York City. Book our walking tours and cultural experiences on our website at www.jojosventuresnyc.com Follow us on social media: FB: Jojo's Ventures IG: @jojosventuresnyc TT: jojosventuresnyc #jojosventuresnyc #venturewithjojo #morethanjustthecity #afrocarribeanroots #panamanianpride🇵🇦

Jojo tells the story of Hilltop Park

Hidden Secrets of NYC: Did you know that long before Yankee Stadium and the Polo Grounds, there once was another famous baseball stadium in Washington Heights. Listen to Jojo as he tells the story of Hilltop Park. Follow us on social media FB: Jojo's Ventures IG: @jojosventuresnyc #jojosventuresnyc #ventureNYCwithjojo #hilltoppark #nypresbyterianhospital