Forward Madison FC today announced that it is teaming up with the Featherstone Flamingos – a team supporters’ group that celebrates Black culture – to celebrate Juneteenth during the team’s home game this Saturday against New England Revolution II. Juneteenth, which takes place annually on June 19, commemorates the emancipation of enslaved people in the United States.
- Limited-Edition Scarf: Forward Madison and the Featherstone Flamingos are collaborating to release a limited-run Juneteenth scarf later this week. Forward Madison will donate 100 percent of the proceeds from sales of the scarf to YWCA Madison.
- Lift Every Voice and Sing: Local opera singer Prenicia Clifton will perform both “The Star-Spangled Banner” and “Lift Every Voice and Sing” – colloquially known as the ‘Black national anthem’ in the United States – before the beginning of Saturday’s match.
- Black Star Drum Line: Madison’s Black Star Drum Line, which gives local youth the opportunity to creatively express themselves through percussive arts, will perform during pre-game ceremonies and at halftime.
- Poetry Performance: Local poet Matthew Charles, who released his debut book in 2020, will read a selection of poetry at halftime.
