Black Joy Parade was exactly the dose of joy I needed. We crowned Kings and Queens all day and hosted an art activation. The kids loved it. Thank you to everyone who supported Hey Carter! at the parade and the work we do to increase representation, elevate Black joy, and shine a bright light on Black boys. Watching children who grew up with our books walk up to the booth meant more than I can explain. Thank you to everyone who helped hold it down. Managing the kids, bathroom breaks, grabbing food, talking to families, all of it. It was full and busy and beautiful. I wish I had taken more pictures, but I was caught up in it. The energy was magnetic. Today I am tired, but it’s the good kind of tired. Already looking forward to the 10-year anniversary. If you came through to blackjoyparade what was your highlight? #blackjoy #blackjoyparade #oakland