Performers for the Unity Block Party, including Grammy-nominated artist Durand Bernarr and several other artists of color, remain unpaid nearly a year after the festival's scheduled programming, according to recent reports regarding the Salt Lake City event.
Financial controversy facing festival
The Unity Block Party, an event designed to champion economic empowerment and cultural representation within Utah’s creative community, has faced significant controversy regarding its financial obligations to talent. The festival's lineup has featured notable figures such as Bernarr, a singer and songwriter known for his Tiny Desk performances and his Grammy nomination for Best Progressive R&B Album.
Contradiction of mission goals
While the festival serves as a platform for Black Business Month and celebrates artistry through various multi-day programming, the failure to compensate performers remains a central issue. The event's mission is described by organizers as a movement intended to support the start-up and small business community, yet the lack of payment to its featured artists stands in direct opposition to those stated goals.
Planned cultural activities and screenings
The festival's scheduled programming for 2025 included a diverse array of cultural activities. According to the event's official documentation, Day One featured an outdoor film screening at Library Square titled Summer of Soul, in partnership with the Sundance Institute. The screening was intended to highlight the 19669 Harlem Cultural Festival and its role in Black music and identity.
Community rallies and brunch details
Other planned components included a 'Unity as Resistance' rally in partnership with Utah March, held at Washington Square. This rally was designed as a space for community members to advocate for their people and celebrate their rhythm. The festival also scheduled a Black Creative Excellence Brunch, which was intended to bring together thought leaders and entrepreneurs to discuss economic empowerment and community advancement.
List of Saturday performers
The Saturday lineup for the Block Party at Library Square was slated to include a wide range of guest performers and featured artists. Among those listed were Bryan Breeding, Stella Standing Bear, Miles Minnick, The King Will Come, Cure for Paranoia, Evolution of the Revolution, Afia, Chin, Detzany, Nubia Soul Goddess, Bunny Jamera, Naquai, Corey, and Stefon.
The event also featured a marketplace showcasing local minority-owned businesses, food vendors, and art installations. The VIP Lounge was scheduled to be hosted by former Utah Jazz player CJ Miles, with sponsorship from Uncle Nearest whiskey.
The Unity Block Party evolved from the 2020 Say Their Names Memorial into a multi-day celebration of Black excellence. The event organizers have used the platform to highlight the diversity within Salt Lake City and provide space for creative professionals.
Despite these stated objectives, the ongoing dispute over artist compensation has cast a shadow over the festival's reputation. The discrepancy between the festival's mission of 'economic empowerment' and the reported non-payment of its performers remains a critical point of contention for those involved in the Utah arts landscape.
The festival's social media presence and official communications continue to list various community activations, including a Kids Zone presented by Strength in Shades and a market presented by 1520 Arts. However, the financial instability regarding its performers persists as a major hurdle for the organization.
