Community Builders in Washington, DC

DC’s Largest cookout is back for the 8th time! Join us on Saturday, September 6.

ABOUT THE FESTIVAL

The March On! Festival is more than an event—it’s a movement, a platform, and a celebration of the stories that have shaped the ongoing fight for justice. Formerly known as the March on Washington Film Festival, this annual gathering harnesses the power of film, music, art, dance, literature, scholarship, and first person accounts to illuminate untold narratives and inspire a deeper understanding of civil rights history and its modern-day impact. We welcome you Tues, Sept 16-Sun, Sept 21 to the 2025 March On! Festival. 

Thirteen Diverse Backgrounds
One Unified Purpose

Southern Diplomats is a collective of community builders, fathers, brothers, entrepreneurs, and, most importantly, mentors—dedicated to strengthening our community through impactful events and service. Our mission is to create spaces that foster connection and give back to the community that supports us. From our signature summer cookout, which brings together thousands across the DMV, to wellness events promoting physical and mental health, we are committed to creating meaningful change through action.

In partnership with Ward Memorial AME Church, we organize monthly Food Bank giveaways to ensure families have access to essential nutrition. During the holiday season, our annual Christmas initiative brings joy and warmth by distributing toys and coats to families in need. Additionally, the church serves as a vital resource for physical health, offering space for free HIV and STI testing through our collaboration with Heart to Hand, Inc.

2024 FILMMAKER COMPETITION WINNERS

Half-Brother
While documenting the birth of his niece, Director William Jenkins leads a series of intimate conversations with his father and half-brother — both named Ronald
Freedom Waders: The Struggle to Integrate Chicago’s Rainbow Beach
Inspired by sit-in campaigns of the South, Velma Murphy and Norman Hill organized wade-ins at Chicago's Rainbow Beach, braving mob violence.
For Those That Lived There
Amidst the gentrified remnants of Chicago's Cabrini Green, For Those That Lived There captures the haunting displacement of Black legacies and the emergence of migrant

HONOREES

JOHN ROBERT LEWIS LIFETIME LEGACY AWARD

Senator Cory Booker

Cory Booker is a U.S. Senator representing New Jersey, serving since 2013. He is a member of the Democratic Party and the first African-American U.S.

MARCH ON! AWARD WINNERS

Stanley Nelson and Marcia Smith of Firelight Media

Stanley Nelson and Marcia Smith co-founded Firelight Media, a non-profit organization dedicated to producing and supporting documentary films by and about communities of color. Firelight

GET INVOLVED WITH SOUTHERN VIBES ONLY

Join the Southern Diplomats team and help bring one of DC’s most vibrant cultural events to life. From event setup to guest registration, food service, hydration, and breakdown, your energy keeps the vibes going strong.

Align your brand with one of the DMV’s most dynamic cultural experiences. Southern Vibes Only brings together over 2,500 professionals, families, creatives, and entrepreneurs for a one-of-a-kind celebration of culture, connection, and community impact.

LATEST NEWS

We’re working on something amazing for March On! 2025. Check back soon for updates, stories, and behind-the-scenes moments from the celebration!