The August Ball commemorates August 1, 1887, Emancipation Day celebrating the liberation of enslaved people, first in the Caribbean, and then eventually the end of slavery in this country. This Ball was also celebrated in 1887 by the La Crosse Community. On August 6, 2022, La Crosse once again celebrated the August Ball hosted by the Enduring Families Project, B.L.A.C.K. (Black Leaders Acquiring Collective Knowledge), Hope Restores, and Black Student Leaders.
Mission: to substantially broaden the local historical narrative by the positive portrayal of the contributions, struggles, and perseverance of early non-white settlers providing a venue for the development of understanding and respect between people in our community and a further springboard for community conversations.
The Enduring Families Project also gives performances at private events, such as conferences, corporate meetings, and seminars. They have presented to groups of educators, the League of Women Voters, and others.
