Mission Statement
	It is our goal to promote the African American experience while addressing the many milestones that our forefathers have made since the Emancipation Proclamation

The Beginning....

In the spring of 1990 the Kelly Miller Alumni Association began discussing fundraising ideas for the organization. This laid the groundwork for what was to become known as the West Virginia Black Heritage Festival, Inc. The first Black Heritage Festival, which was began on September 22, 1990 was called the "Emancipation Proclamation Celebration". It officially began at 11 a.m. on Water Street (now known as E.B. Saunders Way) in Clarksburg, West Virginia. City officials were in attendance for the reading of the Proclamation. Vendors, in the early celebrations, were social clubs and other local organizations. Attendance went far beyond expectation and after three very successful years, the event had outgrown its parent organization and it was decided that it should branch out on its own; thus began the West Virginia Black Heritage Festival.

History

An organizational meeting was held to elect officers, appoint committees and agree upon a name change. West Virginia Black Heritage Festival was incorporated in 2001 and 501 (C)(3) non-profit status was attained in 2003. Many things happen when prayers go up-blessings come down. So it was with the festival. From meager beginnings of 10 to 12 vendors, we have grown to approximately 50 vendors. Over the years, we have been able to feature an African American Miss America, the Buffalo Soldiers, Black art, poetry and nationally known musical recording artists such as the Marcels and the Delfonics. All of these events have been brought into our community and into the City of Clarksburg through this annual celebration. scholarships

Positive Influence

Our society is faced with many troubling influences however, we want our youth to know that there are many excellent options available. We believe that exposing them to positive contributions will help them make difficult decisions. We concentrate on directing our efforts toward the younger generation. Each year, outstanding youths are recognized and honored as our young king and queen. Financial assistance in the form of an annual scholarship is givin to a deserving youth to help further their education. In 2004, we participated in the Kelly Miller Enrichment Program, an after school program open to all youth within Harrison County. Recognizing the contributions of those who have brought us thus far, a senior king and queen are chosen. These individuals are selected based on their service to the community and prove to be positive role models for both the young and old.

Community Support

All this would not have been possible without strong community suport. Community backing has been forth coming from organizations such as: Outback Steakhouse, WBOY TV, Equitable Gas Company, Fairmont State University, UCAR Carbon Company, Wal-Mart, WesBanco Bank, Huntington Bank, BB&T Bank, Dominion Hope, the City of Clarksburg, Harrison County Commission, Harrison County Board of Education, State of West Virginia, The Art Center, Harry Green Chevrolet Nissan, Goody's and Davis Funeral Home as well as our friends, neighbors and vendors who participate in the festival each year. Mt. Zion M.B. Church is host to the festival each year. We believe that with a good idea, positive support and God's blessings-all things are possible.