Event: MoAD Afropolitan Ball 2023
Date: October 21, 2023
Location: The Hibernia, San Francisco
Photography (83): Agency Moanalani Jeffrey
On October 21, over 500 Bay Area arts enthusiasts gathered at The Hibernia in San Francisco to celebrate the Museum of African Diaspora’s (MoAD) new 2023-2024 exhibition season and the museum’s rich cultural diversity. The celebration raised over $650K to support the museum’s exhibitions, educational programs and beloved public programs.
The Afropolitian Ball: One Love, One MoAD began with an elegant VIP reception catered by Melons Catering and Events, one of the Bay Area’s preeminent caterers, in the beautiful ballroom of The Hibernia. Guests were entertained with a performance by the popular musical group Sabor De Mi Cuba. During the reception, Co-Chairs of the event Jill Cowan and Shannon Nash encouraged guests to take center stage for MoAD’s “raise the paddle” session to meet critical funding needs for the museum’s mission.
San Francisco Mayor London Breed made an appearance saying “MoAD is a valuable institution.” “The museum is not just about the exhibits, it’s about the educational opportunities of connecting the African Diaspora with our schools, making sure that we set a strong curriculum of Black history across the Diaspora.” MoAD Executive Director Monetta White was quoted as saying “In the spirit of our theme One Love, One MoAD, I am reminded of the resilience that binds us together. We face challenges, conquer them, and we come out stronger as a vibrant community.” “ As we face these challenges, it is our artists who we always call upon to uplift our community.” “When I reflect on what drives me to do this work daily, it’s my staff, the artists, the curators, and the community I am proud to serve.”
After the reception, artist Autumn Breon gave a site-specific performance created uniquely for the Afropolitian Ball. The party continued with dancing until midnight with official Golden State Warriors DJ, DJ Sharp.
Related
• MoAD’s Afropolitan Ball Raises $650K in Lively Style – Nob Hill Gazette
• MoAD presents Joe Sam – San Francisco Chronicle
• Museum of the African Diaspora’s Monetta White was a key player in the San Francisco food scene before making her mark in art – San Francisco Business Times
