In 2011, a group of seven close friends and alumni from Virginia State University and Delaware State University, bound by their shared love for camaraderie and culture, decided to organize a small cookout at a backyard in Harlem. What began as an intimate gathering of friends has since evolved into , a nationwide event attracting thousands of attendees in cities like Washington, D.C.
, Houston, Atlanta and beyond. This transformation, driven by a passion for community and a commitment to supporting Black-owned businesses, is a testament to the power of collaboration and vision. “We all went to HBCUs, and homecoming is a big thing,” says Shareef Moore, President of The Silent Majority, the organization behind Dear Summer BBQ.
“What started as a backyard barbecue turned into a summer homecoming for young professionals from HBCUs and PWIs alike.” “It was initially called a ‘Love Day,’ because we were showing love to everyone who came out to support us,” Rodney Henry, Vice President of The Silent Majority, added. “We put our money together to get the food, the drinks, and we had certain people on the grill.
We just wanted to show love. It was all about fellowship and having a good time.” As word spread, what started as a local Harlem gathering quickly gained momentum, drawing attention far beyond the city limits.
The event outgrew the backyard, eventually moving to Morningside Park, then later moving to larger venues and expanding into other cities, including W.