Last week, Berkeley City College (BCC) of the Regional Virtual Production Academy (RVPA) and the AfroComicCon/Oakland Technology & Education Center (AFCC/OTEC) joined forces to host a unique and vibrant Juneteenth celebration. This event honored the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States while engaging the community through a blend of art, culture, technology, and entertainment.
A Day of Interactive Fun and Learning
The Juneteenth celebration at BCC was a family-friendly event packed with various activities and attractions. Attendees were greeted with a welcoming play area featuring board and card games, offering fun for all ages.
One of the event’s highlights was the AfroComicCon/BCC Panel Discussion, which brought together animators, professors, and gaming professionals. The panelists discussed the latest technological advancements being implemented at BCC and other community colleges within the Regional Virtual Production Academy (RVPA). They also emphasized the ongoing efforts to achieve equity for Black and Brown communities, underlining the significance of Juneteenth in this context.
Music, Cosplay, and Community Engagement
Live music performances added a festive touch to the celebration, while a virtual production backdrop provided a unique setting for cosplay photo shoots, allowing participants to showcase their favorite characters in a dynamic environment.
The event also featured a diverse array of vendors, including non-profits and Black-owned businesses. These vendors offered art, comic books, and other unique products, contributing to the rich tapestry of the celebration.
To ensure everyone felt welcome and well-fed, free food and beverages were provided throughout the day, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for all attendees.
A New Partnership for Innovation and Education
The announcement of the new partnership between OTEC and BCC was a significant highlight of the event. This collaboration aims to integrate the dynamic storytelling of graphic novels, comic books, gaming, and animation with the exciting advances in virtual production. By combining these elements, the partnership seeks to enhance educational opportunities and foster a deeper understanding of the cultural and historical significance of Juneteenth.
“We are thrilled to partner with BCC to celebrate Juneteenth and bring together the community through this unique blend of art, culture, and technology,” said Olivia Herriford the RVPA “Our goal is to honor the past while inspiring future generations through innovative and engaging experiences.”
Looking Ahead
The Juneteenth celebration at BCC was not just a commemoration of the past but also a look toward the future. With the new partnership between OTEC and BCC, there is great potential for further integration of technology and education, providing new opportunities for the community.
