Juneteenth Sails on Lake Champlain
“Manifesting Black joy is our collective responsibility.” - Ferene Paris
Happy 5th anniversary! All Heart Inspirations and Whistling Man Schooner Co. have manifested Black joy on the water since 2021. Black Vermont residents are invited to enjoy a whimsical sail on Lake Champlain in honor of Juneteenth. This event is FREE for our local Black community through sponsorships and crowdfunded donations. Each year, proceeds are given to a local organization uplifting the Black Diaspora. This year’s recipient is the Richard Kemp Center, a local organization that expands programs and services that support Black Vermonters.
Registration opens on Monday, June 2nd at 12:00pm.
Ferene Paris, a local storytelling artist, curates this annual event. Video and images produced by Isora Lithgow Creations.
Let’s Sail.
Do you identify as Black, African-American, of African diaspora, or African descent? Let’s sail and find a connection through storytelling. We’re offering multiple trips on Tuesday, June 17th, and Wednesday, June 18th. Capacity is limited and available first-come, first-served
Donate.
This annual event is possible thanks to the donations and sponsorships from our magical village. We invite you to learn more about our story and feel inspired to contribute towards our $10K fundraising goal. Ready to Sail It Forward!?
Celebrate.
Our sailing experience is in recognition of Juneteenth, a federal holiday celebrated annually on June 19th to commemorate the emancipation of enslaved people. Known as Emancipation Day, Freedom Day, and Jubilee Day, it has been celebrated by Black Americans since 1865.
Juneteenth Sails
Whistling Man Schooner Co. has hosted epic sails on Lake Champlain to the local Burlington community (and beyond) since 1996. In honor of Juneteenth, we collaborate to provide sailing trips across two days - specifically for Black Vermonters.
Features
2-hour sailing excursion
Black community member host
Mingling & finding connection through storytelling prompts
Light local refreshments & raffles
Don't forget to treat yourself! Pack treats and beverages to enjoy while on the water!
Registration opens on Monday, June 2nd.
TUESDAY, JUNE 17
This event is for Black Vermont Residents (21+). Only sign up for one sail date. Much appreciation!
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 18
This event is for Black Vermont Residents (21+). Only sign up for one sail date. Much appreciation!
Why sailing?
“I find such healing and liberation through sailing. My first sail on WMSC left me in awe as I was reintroduced to Lake Champlain. Beyond grateful to host our Black community on these whimsical vessels and uplift our collective stories.”
— Ferene Paris, Founder of All Heart Inspirations
Donating.
It takes a village to uplift our Black community. We deeply appreciate any monetary contribution you can put towards our fundraising goal for this Juneteenth celebration.
Meeting our $10K fundraising goal will help cover various program expenses:
Treat 50 Black Vermonters to this heartfelt offering.
Compensate local Black community members to host each sail.
Provide light refreshments for sailing excursions.
Cover marketing and promotional expenses.
Make a generous donation to the Kemp Center, supporting their mission to expand programs and services for Black Vermonters.
How do I contribute monetary funds?
This event is possible due to the generosity of people like you. Every small monetary contribution adds up and helps us provide this experience for Black Vermont residents. Feel free to contribute funds to @allheartinspirations on Venmo - or use the button below to donate on this site.
Can I provide support in other ways?
Absolutely! If you have other personal or business resources that could contribute to this event, feel free to contact Ferene. Donated refreshments and giveaways for our guests are deeply appreciated!
What happens if you go over your goal?
Each year, proceeds are donated to the local Black-owned/led organization. The Richard Kemp Center is our 2025 recipient. They expand programs and services that support Black Vermonters’ wellness, preserve their culture, support their youth, and advance racial equity and justice. Learn more about Richard Kemp, a Black community social justice hero whose legacy inspires the center’s mission.
2025 SPONSORS:
Much love and gratitude to our sponsors!
ABOUT JUNETEENTH
Also known as “Freedom Day” or “Emancipation Day” – Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in the U.S. on June 19th, 1865. We encourage you to learn more about the historical legacy of Juneteenth and its influence on our American history. Get engaged with Juneteenth events happening in your local community.
OUR BLACK LIVES STILL MATTER.
Melodie, Ferene, and Nala channeling their Black girl magic in 2020 in the wake of racial uprisings. #QUEENS
We invite you to reflect on the issues and racism Black lives continue to face in 2025. Our hearts continue to ache as incidents such as those leading to the deaths of Amir Locke, Breonna Taylor, George Floyd, Daunte Wright, and Ma'Khia Bryant continue to happen.
In our commitment to being active anti-racists and supporting Black lives, we're invited to be courageous to dismantle oppressive systems and complacent attitudes that have historically harmed one of our most marginalized communities.
We must be accountable and take daily actions to do better.
“love is an action, never just a feeling” -bell hooks