Black Expo Summer Celebration kicks off - 13 WTHR Indianapolis

Today kicks off the annual Black Expo in downtown Indianapolis. The Indiana Black Expo started with roots in the church, and it will begin and end again with worship. Tonight's kick-off of the 42nd annual Summer Celebration is at Light of the World Christian Church at 46th and Michigan, followed by 65 events in 12 days, mostly downtown.

This year's theme is "We Are One," heralding diversity and a unique spirit of collaboration, inviting everyone from all walks of life, cultures, races and religions, to attend.

The black business conference kicks off on Monday, July 16th with the Mayor's breakfast and workshops on growth and expansion of businesses, social media, and international partnerships.

The education conference will focus on developing the mind of the new millennium student and address bullying in our schools.

The WTHR employment opportunity fair will bring in 60 employers who will conduct interviews on-site at the Convention Center.

Youth events will focus on global leadership and entrepreneurship.

Gladys Knight and Harry Bellefonte are scheduled to perform.

"This is the most diverse event I know of in the city,' said Deputy Mayor Olgen Williams. "You go to some events and you get to play bingo and that's all. But this event, you get education, you get food, you get entertainment, you get interaction, you get global and education. You can't beat it and its free for the most part - 85-to95-percent is free, and it brings in $20-million to the city, so you know the mayor is really excited about that."