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UPLIFT, INSPIRE & CELEBRATE WITH US AT
HAT'S & BOWTIE BRUNCH
THE HEART OF BLACK BOY JOY.
Hats & Bow Ties is OUR KINGS’ signature annual celebration honoring the brilliance, resilience, and achievements of Black boys. Rooted in the rich Southern tradition of dressing in their finest “Sunday Best,” our boys come together in style and dignity, embodying pride and respect for their heritage. This elegant and joy-filled event is more than just a celebration—it’s a powerful affirmation that Black Boy Joy exists and thrives.
The gathering centers on love, legacy, and community, with uplifting awards, inspiring performances, and heartfelt speeches that honor each boy’s journey and growth. At its heart, Hats & Bow Ties embraces the timeless Black cultural tradition of breaking bread together—a communal brunch where families, mentors, and supporters connect, share stories, and celebrate unity. This shared meal symbolizes nourishment not just of the body, but of spirit and community bonds.
More than a ceremony, Hats & Bow Ties is a rite of passage where we proudly celebrate our Kind, Intelligent, Noble, Gifted Sons, reminding them and all who witness that they are deeply seen, cherished, and destined for greatness
CREATING A SPACE WHERE BLACK BOY JOY LIVES
What to Expect
This unforgettable gathering centers around love, legacy, and leadership. Event highlights include:
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Award presentations that celebrate personal growth and accomplishments
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Inspirational speeches from mentors, parents, and community leaders
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Live performances and artistic expressions from our youth and local talent
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A warm, family-style brunch that brings us together in tradition and unity
More Than a Meal
In Southern Black culture, sharing a meal is sacred—it’s how we celebrate, grieve, heal, and honor one another. From the Sunday dinner table to the church potluck, food has always been more than nourishment—it’s how we pass down love, legacy, and stories.
At Hats & Bow Ties, our brunch is a reflection of that tradition. It is where elders and children sit side by side, where laughter echoes over grits and biscuits, and where the bonds of community are strengthened plate by plate. It's a space where families, mentors, and supporters come together not just to eat, but to witness and honor the growth of our boys.
We gather, Southern style—with heart, hospitality, and heritage—to remind our young KINGS that they are part of something greater: a legacy of strength, dignity, and joy that’s been passed down for generations.
Why You Should Attend
Attending Hats & Bow Ties is a transformative experience. Whether you're a parent, educator, advocate, or supporter, you will walk away inspired. As a guest, you will:
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Witness Black excellence, joy, and creativity in full expression
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Build connections with families, educators, and community leaders
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Engage in a family-friendly event filled with culture, hope, and unity
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Be part of a tradition that uplifts and affirms young Black boys in front of their village
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Leave knowing you were part of something bigger—a celebration, a movement, a legacy
Why You Should Support
Supporting Hats & Bow Ties is more than contributing to an event. It is investing in a movement to reshape the narrative surrounding Black boys. Your partnership helps:
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Provide safe and joyful spaces where Black boys are affirmed and uplifted
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Fund year-round programs that focus on leadership, mentorship, and emotional wellness
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Strengthen families and communities through intentional connection and celebration
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Publicly honor the gifts, dreams, and voices of Black youth
Your support helps build a world where our boys are not only protected but empowered.
More Than a Celebration: A Fundraiser & Gala
Hats & Bow Ties is not only a celebration of Black Boy Joy—it is also our signature fundraiser and gala. Proceeds from this event directly support OUR KINGS programs, providing mentorship, leadership development, community service opportunities, and cultural experiences for boys year-round.
By attending, donating, or partnering as a sponsor, you are investing in a movement that changes lives. Your support ensures that our young KINGS continue to have safe, affirming spaces where they can grow into the leaders they are destined to be. Together, we are building legacy, opportunity, and a brighter future for generations to come.
BECOME A SPONOR
CELEBRATE WITH US
A Hats & Bow Ties, our young KINGS step into the spotlight with confidence and pride. This is their moment to shine. They will showcase their talents, share their accomplishments from the school year, and reflect on the powerful lessons and experiences they’ve gained through the OUR KINGS cohorts. This is more than a presentation—it is a celebration of their brilliance, resilience, and leadership.
Our young KINGS will also stand boldly to declare the OUR KINGS Pledge, affirming who they are and the greatness they carry within them. From academic milestones to personal triumphs, from creative expression to leadership in action, each moment will remind us that these are not just boys—these are KINGS IN THE MAKING. They are leaders, visionaries, and trailblazers, carrying forward a legacy of strength and excellence.
Every word spoken, every talent displayed, and every achievement shared is proof of what we already know: our young KINGS are destined for greatness, and their light shines bright for all to see.