About

Our History

The Caribbean American Carnival Association of Boston has become the economic boom for many minority owned and operated small businesses in the inner city. The carnival has its roots in the Caribbean Carnival tradition, which originated in Trinidad and Tobago and has since spread throughout the Caribbean and around the world. Ken Bonaparte Mitchell founded CACAB in 1973 with the support of Mayor Kevin White, and launched the first Boston Caribbean Parade. The carnival originally took place in Franklin Park, a large park in the heart of Boston, and included a parade, live music, and traditional Caribbean food and drinks.

Over the years, the carnival has grown in size and popularity, attracting tens of thousands of people from all over the region that now includes a wide range of events and activities, such as a Caribbean-style J’Ouvert celebration, a steelpan competition, a masquerade ball, 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, providing a platform for Caribbean artists, musicians, and entrepreneurs to showcase their talents and businesses. The carnival has also been recognized for its contributions to the city’s diversity and multiculturalism.

Mission Statement

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.

Vision Statement

The ultimate vision for the Caribbean American Carnival Association is to see the Caribbean community be accepted as an integral part of The American melting pot socially, politically, and educationally. Millions and millions of Caribbean families and individuals have called such states as Massachusetts, New York, Connecticut, Florida, and Rhode Island their home and have contributed immensely to the fabric of American society for many years. The vision is to continue to grow and develop as a major part of the American Dream.

Our Board of Directors

Our Board of Directors is composed of three distinct groups: the Executive Board, the Board Members, and the Advisory Board. The Executive Board is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the organization and oversees the implementation of strategic plans.

The Board Members are responsible for setting policies, making major decisions, and providing oversight to ensure that the organization is fulfilling its mission and objectives.

The Advisory Board, on the other hand, is a group of experts in various fields who provide guidance and advice to the Board of Directors. They are not involved in the day-to-day operations of the organization but serve as a valuable resource to the Board Members and Executive Board. The Advisory Board members often have specific expertise in areas such as finance, marketing, technology, or legal matters, which can help the organization to make informed decisions and stay up-to-date with best practices in their respective fields.

Overall, the Board of Directors plays a critical role in the success of any organization. By bringing together individuals with diverse backgrounds, expertise, and perspectives, they can help to ensure that the organization is well-managed, effective, and able to achieve its goals over the long term.