A proclamation on Black Music Month

(May 31, 2024)

The White House

Black music is a staple of American art and a powerhouse of our culture — that is why we must continue to open doors for the next generation of Black artists. Since I came into office, I have had the honor of bestowing some of our Nation’s highest awards to some of our most important Black performers and producers like Gladys Knight, Berry Gordy, Tania León, Queen Latifah, Dionne Warwick, and more — uplifting their talent and inspiring others to follow their example. After making Juneteenth a National Holiday, I also hosted the first Juneteenth concert on the South Lawn — where the voices of Jennifer Hudson, Audra McDonald, Ledisi, and other incredible performers reminded us all of the beauty of Black music and Black culture that is American music and American culture. Last year, Vice President Kamala Harris hosted the first-ever hip-hop house party at the Vice President’s Residence. At the same time, I have helped secure over $100 million to keep concert halls, theaters, and other venues afloat during the pandemic. In my Budget, I ask for a total of over $400 million for the National Endowment for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Humanities — that includes funding for arts programs in underserved communities.