April 30, 2020 — In November 2011, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) officially designated April 30 as International Jazz Day in order to highlight jazz and its diplomatic role of uniting people in all corners of the globe.

In 2013, Mayor Anthony Foxx declared April 30th Jazz Appreciation Day in Charlotte, in recognition of the impact jazz has had on creativity, art, heritage, diversity, and education on our community. It is important to recognize this reality and how it is reflected in 2020.

International Jazz Day brings together communities, schools, artists, historians, academics, and jazz enthusiasts all over the world to celebrate and learn about jazz and its roots, future and impact; raise awareness of the need for intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding; and reinforce international cooperation and communication. Each year on April 30, this international art form is recognized for promoting peace, dialogue among cultures, diversity, and respect for human rights and human dignity; eradicating discrimination; promoting freedom of expression; fostering gender equality; and reinforcing the role of youth in enacting social change. (This excellent description comes from www.jazzday.com.)

International Jazz Day is the culmination of Jazz Appreciation Month, which draws public attention to jazz and its extraordinary heritage throughout April.

Today, we pause again to “honor and recognize the outstanding work that all jazz artists, educators, and enthusiasts in the city of Charlotte presents.”

If you are able, take a moment to watch, follow, share, or even donate to a jazz treasure next door. Connect virtually until we can see each other again in person.