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By Chronda Higgins
The clock will turn back 100 years on August 14 when writers, musicians, artists, and intellectuals who led the period of Black artistic expression and thought of the Harlem Renaissance are celebrated at The Fitzgerald during HYFIN’s Anti-Gala.
Harlem Nights is a celebration of one of the most transformative periods in Black artistry and culture, connecting the creative brilliance of Harlem’s golden era from 1918 to 1937 with the cultural renaissance taking place in Milwaukee today.
The fundraiser is being held in the restored 1874 residence of ship captain Robert Patrick Fitzgerald in downtown Milwaukee’s east side. The event honors visionaries like writers Langston Hughes, Zora Neale Hurston, Claude McKay, and James Weldon Johnson, artists like Aaron Douglas, musicians like Josephine Baker, Duke Ellington, Paul Robeson and Bessie Smith and intellectuals and activists like W.E.B. Du Bois, Alain Locke, and Marcus Garvey.
HYFIN’s Harlem Renaissance-themed Anti-Gala builds on the foundation these visionaries laid a century ago with the creativity and expressiveness that define modern Black identity, agency, and life and the legacy being shaped today. The event highlights the transformation and innovation of HYFIN through their four pillars: music & culture, tech & entrepreneurship, storytelling & news, and youth education & training. Guests will experience an evening of live music, stunning fashion, curated cuisine, and immersive visuals, all inspired by the timeless elegance and bold spirit of Harlem’s most iconic era.
As an ode to Milwaukee’s Bronzeville, the Anti-Gala will honor the neighborhood’s rich history and celebrate local legends, including tables named after icons like Vel R. Phillips, Dr. Howard Fuller, and Manty Ellis.
“Leave your tuxedos and gowns at home and express yourself as we celebrate the past, present, and future of Black excellence,” said Element Everest-Blanks, HYFIN program director. “This is our biggest event of the year to support HYFIN’s mission to provide an authentic space where Black America sees its true reflection, experiences its heritage celebrated, and finds empowerment in media content that is as diverse and innovative as its audience.”
The evening begins with exclusive early access for VIPs at 6 p.m., followed by general admission from 7 to 9 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to embrace the style and energy of the Harlem Renaissance through fashion and celebration.
The HYFIN Anti-Gala is more than just an event; it’s a tribute to the cultural pioneers of the past and a recognition of the legacy being shaped today.
Sponsorships for the 2025 HYFIN Anti-Gala are being sought at levels ranging from $1,000 to $25,000.
- Naming Sponsor: $25,000
- Title Sponsor: $10,000
- Specialty Sponsor: $5,000
- Table Sponsor: $2,500
- Event Sponsor: $1,000
For more information on sponsorships, contact Director of Underwriting, Jeremy Zuleger.
Individual tickets are $175 and a few VIP tickets allowing early access are $250 each. Visit https://hyfin.org/harlem/ for more information or to purchase tickets or a table.
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About HYFIN:
HYFIN is a digital platform and community that celebrates and empowers Black culture, excellence, and innovation. Through engaging content, events, and partnerships, HYFIN seeks to amplify Black voices and create opportunities for growth and success. Learn more at https://hyfin.org/.
About Radio Milwaukee:
Radio Milwaukee (WYMS-88.9FM) has been a positive force for Milwaukee on air, online, and in the community since its 2007 launch. Through its creative programming and content, the station is committed to providing a platform for music discovery, local stories, and engaging content that reflects the community it serves. Radio Milwaukee seeks to inspire and connect its audience through the power of music and storytelling. 88Nine broadcasts and streams a unique blend of musical styles, including at least one song by a Milwaukee artist each hour, and short Uniquely Milwaukee stories that foster engagement and positive change. Learn more about Radio Milwaukee and stream the station at RadioMilwaukee.org or the Radio Milwaukee mobile app. Learn more at https://radiomilwaukee.org/.
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