Shop for local goods and more from 4:00-7:30 p.m. on Lou Fusz Plaza
St. Louis CITY SC will host local Black-owned small businesses and entrepreneurs during the pre-match CITY Block Party on Saturday, June 22 in honor of Juneteenth. Crafters, writers, health and fitness enthusiasts and more will showcase their products and services on Lou Fusz Plaza from 4:00-7:30 p.m., ahead of CITY SC vs. Atlanta United kickoff.
“Our CITY Block Parties bring together our community to celebrate St. Louis and our region’s immense amount of talent. As we continue to commemorate Juneteenth during our June 22nd match, we want to shine a light on local Black creators and makers who are doing incredible things in St. Louis and beyond and bring more awareness to their businesses,” said Matt Sebek, St. Louis CITY SC’s Chief Experience Officer.
The featured Black-owned businesses include:
- Author Micheal Anderson: Micheal Anderson is a St. Louisan writer, blogger and best-selling author of the Zoey Lyndon children’s book series, which encourages girls to pursue STEM careers. @everythingmicheal
- Creators Corner: Empowering all skill levels, the Florissant-based Creators Corner offers quality yarn, craft supplies and handmade crochet goods. @creators.cornerllc
- Qavah Spaces: Qavah Spaces offers a refuge to recharge and reconnect with yourself, including with the “Reflections” notebook to express your thoughts and dreams on paper. @qavahspaces
- Ope Outdoors: Ope Outdoors not only creates premium sustainable clothing, but the brand also brings outdoor enthusiasts together with group hikes in Midwestern parks. @opeoutdoors
- STL Run Crew: Whether you’re a marathoner or a casual walker, the STL Run Crew creates spaces to move and connect while embracing diversity and community. @stlruncrew
“It is our club’s goal to be ‘more than soccer,’ and make a positive impact in our community – to inspire, empower and be a catalyst for change,” said Kristin Mosley, St. Louis CITY SC’s Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging. “We are looking forward to welcoming these business owners to our plaza and continue in our mission to Support Black Dreams.”
At the CITY Block Party, fans can get the matchday party started early with live entertainment from Stazi, James Lion and Aida Ade; local food and drink, including local Black-owned CITY Flavor food partner Steve’s Hot Dogs; fan giveaways and much more. Those who do not have a ticket to the match can stay for the free Watch Party on the plaza to see CITY SC take on Atlanta starting at 7:30 p.m.
JUNETEENTH PRE-MATCH SHIRT
Major League Soccer is collaborating with MLS’s Black Players for Change and adidas to introduce a special edition pre-match “I AM #19” shirt that acknowledges the significance of Juneteenth, celebrates all players as agents of change, and unites around the work yet to be done. The shirt, designed by adidas Licensed Sports Graphics Manager Todd Stansbury, will be worn by CITY SC players during pre-match warm-ups before the Club’s June 19th home match versus Colorado Rapids.
Fans will have the opportunity to purchase the “I AM #19” shirt at CITY Goods inside CITYPARK as well as www.MLSsoccer.com.
