The 24th of May is the return of #UnityDayChi along with building community and beyond

It started at a family cookout.

When Devo Robinson has a conversation with his Grandmother and her call for bringing family together, a simple idea evolves into a Chicago staple.

A conversation nearly 15 years ago results in #UnityDayChi (click HERE for our previous article). Traditionally taking place over Memorial Day Weekend (this year, it takes place on May 24, 2025 at 11901 South Loomis), the focus is on stopping the violence and putting the guns down. However, that's just a piece of the larger puzzle of community and family building which are hallmarks of the event.

In speaking with Devo Robinson, the driving force behind the event, its foundation goes so much further as noted in the following segment:

This year's edition includes collaborative efforts via Jakz Soundz and Visions Odeum & Events. Complimented by nearly 50 local businesses ranging from the fields of financial literacy (i.e. mortgage companies and credit repair), health and wellness, and fashion and apparel, it provides a sense of connectivity with the immediate community. The additional presence of the HBCU community (i.e. college representatives and alumni clubs) and the Divine 9 (the collective of Black/African-American Fraternities and Sororities) add another level of community and civic engagement; historically, previous mayors (i.e. former Mayor Lightfoot), city aldermen, and even state legislators have made their presence felt at the event.

As an added bonus, the highly anticipated "Old School" car show and the presence of Chicago's top DJ's (the lineup is forthcoming), including some talented youth on the turntables, adds to the festivities which encompass the family-focused themed event (as it is free and open to the public).

As Memorial Day Weekend approaches, so too is an event that is enriching and engaging, especially as it relates to the Southside, Westside, and the city of Chicago to set a positive tone and Building a Better Chicago.

It's about unity in the community as provided by in the efforts of #UnityDayChi.

Notes: For more details, including opportunities to serve as a vendor or volunteer, you may call 312-725-6801. To watch the full interview and playlist, you may click and watch HERE.