Rootead is excited to host our third annual African Masquerade Fundraiser Gala on Saturday, November 7, 2026, from 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. at The Epic Center in downtown Kalamazoo, Michigan. This black-tie celebration aims to bring our community together to honor local leaders, celebrate African culture, and raise vital funds to sustain our ongoing programming across its core branches. All attendees must be 21 years of age or older.
The purpose of the event is to to honor the community, raise funds, and fuel our impact in the work of birthing justice, youth enrichment and healing arts. This year’s theme is “New Beginnings” and the event’s signature color is red.
“As an organization, we have been doing a lot of rebuilding, so this theme is a reflection of that,” said Carmen James-Hudson, our Interim Executive Director. “The event color is red, which is associated with the heart, blood, strength, and love.”
Attendees are encouraged to wear African masks and clothing in accordance with the central theme. This year’s event will continue the tradition of the signature mask contest, to showcase and award those who display unique masks to express their personal style, as well as live performances, a silent auction, and more.
“The gala is a three-tiered experience,depending on the ticket guests choose. The full experience includes an opening soiree, the live performance, and ends at the gala,” said James-Hudson. “Regardless of the ticket level guests choose, every tier will be an immersive, unique experience where everything from the food to the aesthetic will celebrate the strength of our roots as well as the hope of new beginnings.”
This year’s Masquerade is presented by Bronson Healthcare. This sponsorship demonstrates Bronson’s dedication to strengthening community wellness and supporting Rootead’s life-affirming programs across Southwest Michigan.
“We are thrilled to have Bronson standing with us as we continue to host one of Southwest Michigan’s most unique community fundraising events,” said James-Hudson. “Their early commitment sends a powerful message and helps build momentum as we continue welcoming sponsors, partners, and guests.”
Community members can purchase individual tickets, book tables, or secure corporate sponsorships online. Ticket tiers include the Table Experience ($1,000), Gold Ticket ($150), Black Ticket ($85), and Green Ticket ($50). Additional sponsorship opportunities remain available for organizations that wish to support the event and our programs. Purchase tickets and learn more about the 2026 Rootead Gala here.
Article Summary:
Rootead Enrichment Center will host its third annual African Masquerade Fundraiser Gala on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at The Epic Center in downtown Kalamazoo. This black-tie, 21-and-over celebration brings the community together to honor local leaders, celebrate African culture, and raise essential funds for Rootead’s birth justice, youth enrichment, and healing arts programs.
Centered around a theme of new beginnings, the event reflects the organization’s recent internal rebuilding, with red chosen as the signature color to represent strength, heart, and love. Guests are encouraged to wear African masks and attire, with festivities featuring a signature mask contest, live performances, a silent auction, and culturally immersive food.
Presented by Bronson Healthcare, the gala offers ticket options ranging from $50 to $1,000 across Green, Black, Gold, and Table Experience tiers, with select levels providing access to an opening soiree alongside the main performances and gala.
