Organization Overview:
The Caribbean American Carnival Association of Boston is the largest BIPOC
celebration in the city of Boston and has become the economic boom for many minority owned and operated small businesses in the inner city. Ken Bonaparte Mitchell founded CACAB in 1973 with the support of Mayor Kevin White, and launched the first Boston Caribbean Parade.
Since its establishment it has grown into an enormous event filled with inclusive culture, cross culture costumes, masqueraders, music, steel pan orchestra, entertainers, vendors, a Junior Carnival, a King & Queen Competition, and much more. One of the greatest accomplishments is Boston Carnival Caribbean week, which was signed into law by the State Legislature in 1997. Boston Carnival, like New York West Indian Day Carnival is a celebration of culture like no other; recognized internationally. Annually, we seek sponsors to join our organization in celebrating our rich history, commitment to culture and community.
Mission
The Caribbean American Carnival Association of Boston (CACAB) mission is to provide Caribbean culture awareness through social and educational programming. We create an inclusive-celebratory space where all cultures are celebrated and to exemplify the value and impact of the West Indian population in the city of Boston. The provides strong leadership, accountability, collaboration, diversity, quality and integrity in achieving its goals. CACAB continues to expand its role to include the social and economic and development of the Caribbean community.
Executive Board
President-Shirley Shillingford
Vice President- Kenya Beaman
Treasurer- Robert George
Public Relations & Media Officer – Ruth Georges
Executive Secretary – Michelle Defronzo
Board Members
Dr. Cal Whitworth
Eileen Kenner
Amina Nunez
Clif Dj Smoov Mathurin
Sonia Clark (Band Liaison)
Innocent “Sam” Cedeno
Advisory Board Members
Honorable Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley, of Massachusetts
Clarence Cooper, Unity Sports & Cultural Club – 2000 and past founder
Former State Senator Dianne Wilkerson -2000
Jouvert Chairwoman – T. Dacia Shillinford-Compas