The St. Louis American

Confluence Preparatory Academy students spoke with a recruiter from Southeast Missouri State University during the annual College and Career Fair on November 21, 2024. Students met with college representatives, career professionals, and community leaders, and Harris-Stowe State University President Dr. LaTonia Collins Smith presented $180,00 in merit-based scholarships. Photo courtesy of Confluence Academy

On November 21, 2024, the Grandel Theater hosted the impactful Reckoning With Our Racial Past panel, bringing together community leaders and organizations to discuss systemic inequities and paths toward justice. Renowned journalist Soledad O’Brien joined Michael P. McMillan, Susan Stith, Karishma Furtado, and Melanie Adams in leading thought-provoking discussions that inspired action and reflection among attendees. The evening began with a stirring performance by Gentlemen of Vision, setting the tone for a night dedicated to meaningful dialogue. This photo gallery captures the event’s powerful moments, highlighting the commitment to equity and understanding within the St. Louis community. Photos by Taylor Marrie | The St. Louis American.

The Missouri Historical Society presents The Inaugural Wendell Pruitt Celebration of African American Service with keynote speaker Dr. Matthew Delmont on Sunday, December 8. See SPECIAL EVENTS for additional information.

Class of 2024 included Anthony Bonner, Lavar Miller and more

Winterfest 2024, held on November 23rd, 2024 at Kiener Plaza in St. Louis, transformed the area into a festive wonderland beneath the Gateway Arch. The event featured a variety of family-friendly activities, including ice skating, s’mores stations, and igloos illuminated by 100,000 twinkling lights. Arch Park Mayor Tishaura Jones joined the celebration, engaging with attendees and emphasizing the city’s commitment to community events. Beloved mascots Fredbird and Louie also made appearances, delighting children and adding to the festive atmosphere. This photo gallery captures the vibrant moments and joyful spirit of Winterfest 2024, showcasing the community’s unity and holiday cheer. Photos by Taylor Marie | The St. Louis American.

This week’s gallery features Black Colorado Buffaloes fans showing their spirit while tailgating ahead of the game against the Kansas Jayhawks in Kansas City. Cardinal Ritter’s football season came to a surprising close with a hard-fought game against Lafayette. Celebrate the holiday season with highlights from Winterfest at Kiener Plaza, and take a look back at the Reckoning With Our Racial Past panel, kicked off by the inspiring Gentlemen of Vision.

The Honorable Esther Haywood of St. Louis was remembered as a fierce civil rights and social justice advocate, bold community leader political pioneer and trusted leader during her memorial service on Monday November 25, at Prince of Peace Church at 9350 Natural Bridge Road.

Gentlemen of Vision kick off the Reckoning With Our Racial Past Panel on 11/21/24 at the Grandel Theater. Photo by Taylor Marrie | St. Louis American

11th Ward Alderwoman Laura Keys was among dozens of volunteers who braved a chilly Tuesday morn- ing to help the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis and Schnucks Markets serve the community by providing over 700 turkeys and side dishes in boxes to recipients during the annual Urban League Turkey Giveaway. Cars began lining up near the Urban League headquarters at 1408 N. Kingshighway Blvd., before 6 a.m. for the noon start and the procession lasted for three hours.