Bison on the Vineyard (BOV), a distinguished group of Howard University alumni and friends, will gather on Martha’s Vineyard from August 16 through 23, to celebrate its 20th Anniversary. Leaders in political, economic, and social change will share ideas participants can take back to their communities.


Schedule:

Sunday, August 16, 6 to 8 pm. Pre-opening meetup. Cummings Manor, 22 Narragansett Ave.


Monday, August 17, 4 to 6 pm. BOV opening reception. Cousen Rose Gallery, Upper Circuit Ave.
Reservations Required, (240) 515-5739. Free.


Wednesday, August 19, 1:30 to 3 pm. “African American Heritage Trail tour. Meetup Location: Oak Bluffs Steamship Terminal, Reservations Required, (240) 515-5739


Thursday, August 20, 10 am to 12 pm. “Chaos in the Streets: Know Your Rights with ICE. Oak Bluffs
Library, 56 R School Street, Free. Later on the same day: “Voting Rights Under Siege (Your Rights. Your Voice. Your Power) Seminar. Oak Bluff Library 56 R School Street. Free.


Friday, August 21, 10 am to 12 pm, “Wealth health Seminar.” Strand Theater, Oak Bluffs. Free. Later on the same day from 2 to 4 pm: Redistricting/Voter Protection seminar.” Strand Theatre, 11 Oak Bluffs Ave. Free.


Saturday, August 22, from 10 am to 12 pm. “Father Darryl James Chicken & Waffle Brunch in partnership with Howard on the Vineyard. 11 Circuit Avenue, Reservations Required, (240) 515-5739. Later that day: MV Jazz Experience Concert in partnership with BOV. MVCMA Tabernacle, 80 Trinity Park, Reservations Required (240) 515-5739. Additionally, from 5 to 9 pm: Howard on the Vineyard lobster feast in partnership with BOV. The Eleven Circuit, 11 Circuit Ave. Reservations Required. (240) 515-5739.

Background: Bison on the Vineyard (BOV) was founded in 2006 by five distinguished Howard University alumni: Margo Bouchet, Esq.; Sarah Davidson, Social Justice Advocate; Donald Thigpen, Esq.; the late Father Darryl James, Episcopal priest; and Lydia Padilla, Esq.

What began as a small circle of dedicated alumni has grown into a national movement that has inspired other Historically Black Colleges and Universities to follow its example. BOV has welcomed more than 10,000 Howard alumni and friends to the island. BOV honors its founding mission by continuing to elevate voices, strengthen networks, and inspire action that uplifts communities.


Registration for most events, click: https://myle.com/bison-on-the-vineyard-2026.