Get ready for the highly anticipated event “Health, Wellness, and Love: A Stevie Wonder Tribute” happening on July 22, 2023, from 1 pm to 7 pm. This exciting celebration will take place at the Woodward parking lot of the College for Creative Studies, organized by Dr. Sharon DuMas, Stevie Wonder’s first cousin and the driving force behind the initiative that renamed Milwaukee Avenue in Detroit to Stevie Wonder Boulevard.
Stevie Wonder, a beloved music icon, is renowned for his timeless hits and messages of love and unity. His family has been dedicated to promoting good health, especially in light of Stevie’s recent kidney transplant due to complications with diabetes, a disease that disproportionately affects the African American community. Sharon DuMas, the event organizer and Stevie’s first cousin, expressed, “Stevie and our family are committed to promoting good health and wellness, particularly within our community. This event not only pays tribute to Stevie’s legacy but also provides an opportunity to advocate for these important messages.”
The “Health, Wellness, and Love: A Stevie Wonder Tribute” event guarantees a day filled with fun, music, and activities for the whole family. Attendees can begin the day with health screenings and enjoy a gospel choir competition featuring local talent.
Numerous food trucks and vendors will be present, offering healthy options and locally made goods, allowing attendees to support the community while indulging in delicious food.
An exciting addition to the event is the presence of acclaimed actor Hill Harper, known for his roles in hit TV shows such as “CSI: NY” and “The Good Doctor.” Harper, who is currently running for Debbie Stabenow’s soon-to-be-vacated U.S. Senate seat, will serve as a guest speaker. He will help launch the youth summit, scheduled from 10 am to 1 pm, which is part of the festival. This summit aims to teach love, self-care, and mental health awareness, with a focus on curbing violence in Detroit, particularly among Black boys and young men. Breakout sessions, a video game truck, and a competition will engage and inspire the attending youth.
Throughout the day, attendees can enjoy live performances by R&B singer Alise King, dance to Stevie Wonder’s music, and participate in family-friendly activities like face painting and balloon animals. Tickets for the event start at $5 and are considered donations to the non-profit organization behind the production.
All proceeds from food sales and vendor fees will directly support Full and Fabulous, a non-profit organization offering a comprehensive wrap-around prevention program for young women aged 12 to 21. This program promotes lifelong habits of good nutrition, physical activity, personal development, positive body image, and self-esteem while aiding healing from the shame associated with being overweight. Full and Fabulous is dedicated to helping young women achieve their aspirations and face adversity with confidence and grace.
Sharon DuMas, the event organizer, expressed her excitement, saying, “We are thrilled to bring the community together for ‘Health, Wellness, and Love: A Stevie Wonder Tribute.’ This event is an opportunity to celebrate Stevie’s music and his message of love, while also promoting good health and supporting a fantastic cause.”
For more information about the event, including the full schedule of activities and a list of participating vendors, please visit the Full and Fabulous website at www.fullandfabulous.org.