Dr. Cheryl McKissack Daniel, Chair of the Board of McKissack & McKissack, has been named a Grand Marshal of the 57th African American Day Parade, taking place Sunday, September 20, 2026, in Harlem, New York.

The annual celebration is one of Harlem’s signature cultural traditions, bringing together leaders, businesses, organizations, performers, and community members to celebrate the achievements and contributions of African Americans.

Celebrating Black Business and Community Leadership

This year’s parade theme, “Good Businesses Sustain Our Future,” recognizes the important role Black-owned businesses play in creating opportunity, building wealth, and strengthening communities.

The theme holds particular significance for Dr. McKissack Daniel, whose leadership continues a remarkable family legacy spanning more than two centuries.

As Chair of the Board of McKissack & McKissack, Dr. McKissack Daniel represents the fifth generation of a family whose history in design and construction dates back more than 230 years. Her career and commitment to advancing opportunities within the industry embody the entrepreneurial spirit and long-term impact being celebrated at this year’s parade.

She will join fellow Grand Marshals Barbara Askins, President of the Harlem Business Improvement District; J. Alexander Martin, FUBU Co-Founder and President of the New York State Black Chamber of Commerce; Chef Charles Gabriel, Founder of Charles Pan-Fried Chicken; and Michael Preston, Co-Owner of Harlem Rocket.

A Historic Harlem Celebration

The renowned Grambling State University Tiger Marching Band will lead this year’s parade as Grambling State celebrates its 125th anniversary and the marching band marks its 100th anniversary.

The parade will also feature the Federation of Black Cowboys, more than 35 floats, community organizations, marching units, and family-friendly performances.

Festivities begin with a pre-parade show at 11:00 a.m. at West 125th Street, followed by the parade at 12:30 p.m. The route will travel along Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Boulevard from West 111th Street to West 138th Street.

The celebration begins a day earlier on Saturday, September 19, with the 4th Annual Get Involved: Community, Literacy, Health, and Culture Celebration at Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Plaza.

Dr. McKissack Daniel’s recognition as a Grand Marshal reflects a legacy of leadership, entrepreneurship, and service that continues to create opportunities for future generations.

Event Details
57th African American Day Parade
Sunday, September 20, 2026
Pre-Parade Show: 11:00 a.m.
Parade: 12:30 p.m.
Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Boulevard
Harlem, New York

Source: New York Amsterdam News, “Grambling State University marching band to lead 57th African American Day Parade,” August 5, 2026.