Introduction to Juneteenth Celebration
Beloved South Side chef, community matriarch, and activist Josephine “Mother” Wade is inviting the public to join her for a special Juneteenth celebration and fundraiser this Saturday, June 14, from 12 to 4 p.m. at her restaurant, Josephine’s Cookin’ (436 E. 79th St.).
Josephine Mother Wade (Photo Provided)
The Purpose of the Event
The event, which doubles as a birthday celebration for Wade—who turns 83—will raise money for her foundation and scholarship fund. It also honors a dozen dynamic women who embody the same spirit of leadership and service that Wade has carried for decades.
Expectations for the Celebration
Attendees can expect an afternoon filled with soul food, music, dancing, and tributes to the honorees—all in the spirit of Juneteenth. For Wade, food has always been more than nourishment—it’s a link to Black heritage and a symbol of survival. “Food is one way to celebrate Juneteenth as we share foods that fed generations of Black families, and, even, some enslaved people. It serves as a way to connect with our ancestral history,” she said.
Honoring Black Women Leaders
This year’s honorees include:
Kate Young, Aramark
Darlene Tribue, Park Manor
Pam Brown, Business Development, Paradies Lagardère
Aricka Anderson, Communications Engagement Director
Cheryl Blackmond, Community Activist
Ronalyn Stephen, PHCS Plus, President and CEO
Sharla Roberts, Chief Procurement Officer, City of Chicago
Dr. Lona Bibbs, Retired Educator
Commissioner Bridget Gainer, Cook County Board of Commissioners
Karen McCoo, Independent Media Production Professional
Victoria Lopez, Zann – Manager, Strategic Partnerships
Wade’s Contributions to the Community
Wade opened Captain’s Hard Times (now Josephine’s Cookin’) in 1986 with her husband, building a restaurant rooted in family recipes and community spirit. Over the years, she has hired locally, fed the hungry, and launched We Women Empowered, a group that mentors young people.
The Significance of the Celebration
The celebration’s purpose ties into the four pillars of Juneteenth: education, health, wealth, and justice—with this weekend’s focus on raising funds for education.
About the Chicago Defender
The Chicago Defender is a multimedia news and information provider that offers marketing solutions, strategic partnerships, and custom events for the African American market. Our platform equips us to leverage audience influence to reach, connect, and impact the Black Community with culturally relevant content not often serviced by mainstream media.
Founded in 1905, The Chicago Defender will celebrate its 120th Anniversary on May 5, 2025. Nielson and Essence Survey 2014 recognized it nationally as the second most widely read and best African American Newspaper. In July 2019, the Chicago Defender transitioned from a printed newspaper into a digitally focused, high-traffic content platform dedicated to online editorials, premiere events, sponsored advertising, custom publishing, and archival merchandising. We distribute relevant and engaging news and information via multiple platforms daily.
Conclusion
For more information, visit Josephine’s Cookin’ at 436 E. 79th Street on June 14. Bring your appetite and your heart.
FAQs
Q: What is the date and time of the Juneteenth celebration?
A: The celebration will take place on June 14 from 12 to 4 p.m.
Q: Where is the celebration located?
A: The celebration will be held at Josephine’s Cookin’ (436 E. 79th St.).
Q: What is the purpose of the celebration?
A: The celebration aims to raise money for Mother Wade’s foundation and scholarship fund, while honoring Black women leaders in the community.
Q: Who are this year’s honorees?
A: This year’s honorees include 12 dynamic women who embody the spirit of leadership and service, including Kate Young, Darlene Tribue, and Commissioner Bridget Gainer, among others.
