from professional to party
Music conference and weeklong party highlights Black Austin for its 28th year

Jump On It Week ranges from the professional to the purely fun.
Black Austinites have plenty of common interests — and events for celebrating them — but one annual meetup hopes to represent it all. Jump On It Week Music Conference & Social Media Interactive is set to take place June 2-9 in a variety of locations around Austin.
Everything on the agenda for the eight day festival, conference, party — whatever you want to call it — is focused on the "richness and diversity of black culture." In addition to the many different topics that entails, it also means different tones, ranging from educational to purely fun.
The most important thing is that attendees meet each other and make real connections. It's not just locals; People travel for this event, which prides itself on drawing tourist revenue into town. A release also points out Austin's always-increasing desirability for living and working.
"Jump On It Week Music Conference & Social Media Interactive is not just a celebration of black culture; It's a celebration of Austin's vibrant spirit and inclusive community," said Jump On It operations director Breanna Byrd in the release. "We're excited to welcome both residents and visitors to join us for eight days of music, education, and fun!"
First and foremost is the music conference, with concerts featuring at least 10 up-and-coming artists, most notably rapper and former Love & Hip Hop: Miami cast member Sukihana. Also on the schedule are music awards, community panels and forums, a youth party and showcase, food, sports, and more.
Each days events are (loosely) as follows:
- June 2: Hood Day, with an awards ceremony and after party
- June 3: Black Embassy Day, with community talks
- June 4: JOI University Day, with youth programming
- June 5: Community Day, with a free barbecue, a basketball tournament, skating, bowling, and more
- June 6: She A Pro Day, with women-focused programming
- June 7-9: The Fat Gator Weekend, with a kick-off party, music industry panels, a celebrity basketball game, a lake festival, a car show, a boat party, and more
Founded in 1997, this conference can keep up with its packed schedule. Each of these events and themed days have lots of smaller-scale programming embedded within. Some events are family-family, while others are reserved just for the adults.
More information is available at jumponitweek.com. Folks who can't make it or want a preview before committing next year can tune in to some events via the Jump On It App and YouTube.