Iraqi War Veteran Highlights Columbia’s Historic Black Business District

Documentary set to premiere on Juneteenth shines a light on Columbia’s black business legacy

– In anticipation of Juneteenth celebrations, an Iraqi veteran is bringing attention to the historic black business district in Columbia. A documentary titled “7Sunday” narrated by Dr. Bobby Donaldson, a leading figure in the University of South Carolina’s Center of Civil Rights History and Research, is set to premiere at the 2024 Juneteenth Entrepreneur, Film, and TV Extravaganza.

Documentary Honors Black Business Pioneers

The film includes a recollection by the late Elise Martin, who was 108 years old during filming. Despite her passing before the film’s premiere, her prominent role in Columbia’s black business history from the 1920s to the 1930s, is paid tribute. The documentary also showcases several successful black businesses of that era including; Leevy’s Funeral Home, the health services provided by Dr. Cooper Sr. Noble, the social care sector of DSS, Palmetto Sea food, and DESA Inc.

Juneteenth Entrepreneur, Film, and TV Extravaganza

The documentary will debut on the first day of the Juneteenth Extravaganza, June 18th, directly after the Entrepreneurial Summit which features celebrated guests. The second day of the event will commence with a children’s matinee premiere of the SCETV Emmy-nominated “The Cool and The Strong” series. The day will culminate in an Oscar Themed Premiere of 7Sunday at the Historic Nickelodeon Theatre beginning at 5pm.

Extravaganza Celebration

Post-premiere, attendees will enjoy a celebration featuring catering from Jeffrey Lampkin’s Country Boy and Kitchen, live performances by Grammy nominated R&B artist Kenny Lattimore, Grammy Winning Artist Susan Carol, and the nationally known 7Sunday Live Band at the Columbia Museum of Art.

For further details on the event and the documentary, visit here.