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SAN BERNARDINO, CA–– NBA All-Star and Hall of Famer John Thomas Salley, father, athlete, actor, serial entrepreneur, talk show host, philanthropist, wellness advocate, vegan, and champion, will serve as the Grand Marshal for the 2025 San Bernardino Black History Parade.
“We are pleased and excited to welcome John Sally as the Grand Marshall of the 46th Annual Black History Parade,” said Black Cultural Foundation President Carl M. Dameron. “Amy Malone, President of the NCNW Inland Empire Section and Founder and President of Girl in Charge Public Relations, successfully secured John Salley for the parade.”
“It is an honor to participate in the San Bernardino Black History Month Parade. Anytime I can celebrate the lives and accomplishments of Black people, I will do so with pride. This parade is a way for me to honor the visionaries of the past and those who are on the forefront now advocating for our rights and liberties today,” said Salley.
Born and raised in Brooklyn, Salley developed a passion for basketball early on. He earned a full scholarship to Georgia Tech, where he played under legendary coach Bobby Cremins. Selected as the #11 pick in the 1986 NBA Draft, John’s 15-year career is marked by historic milestones.
He became the first player to win four championships with three different teams: the iconic Detroit Pistons “Bad Boys,” Michael Jordan’s record-breaking 1996 Chicago Bulls, and the 2000 Los Angeles Lakers under Phil Jackson.
After retiring from the NBA in 2000, Salley transitioned seamlessly into television and film. His credits include Bad Boys, Bad Boys II, Bad Boys 4 Life, Eddie, Confessions of a Shopaholic, and Disney’s Sneakerella. Salley co-hosted the Emmy-nominated The Best Damn Sports Show Period and has led multiple shows, including The John Salley Block Party, Ballers on BET and VH1’s Basketball Wives Reunion. He also helms his production company, John Salley Presents, and consulting firm, Sal Sal Consultants, where he develops unique projects for TV, film, and digital platforms.
As a serial entrepreneur, Salley has embraced his passion for building impactful businesses. He co-founded a vegan supplement company and partnered with his daughter to create a cannabis brand focused on wellness.
His latest venture, Black Folk Media, developed in partnership with the Pan African Film Festival, aims to launch the first Black-only media app. This platform will make the entertainment industry accessible to creators at every level, partnering with universities and high schools to nurture emerging talent.
Salley is a dedicated advocate for wellness, plant-based living, and social causes. He is actively involved with Operation Smile, PETA, and PCRM. A recipient of PETA’s highest honor, Salley has also addressed Congress on the Child Nutrition Act to promote healthier vegetarian options in public schools.
He frequently speaks at VegFests across the country, sharing his passion for plant-based lifestyles and healthy living. John, an early investor in Beyond Meat, also contributes articles for Wine Spectator, Cigar Aficionado, and LA Confidential.
“Salley continues to inspire and engage millions with his active presence on platforms like Instagram (@johnsalley), Twitter (@thejohnsalley), and VLAD TV’s YouTube channel,” said Dameron.
Salley es in Los Angeles with his wife and daughters, which proves his commitment to family, wellness, and innovation.
Black History Parade Details:
- Date: Saturday, February 1, 2025
- Time: 9:00 a.m.
- Route: Baseline Ave. and Mt. Vernon to California Street
“The Black History Parade, a cherished tradition since 1968, will proceed along Baseline Avenue from Mt. Vernon to California Street in Westside San Bernardino, uplifting the community with its vibrant energy and cultural importance,” said Dameron.
Parade coordinator Russel Ward said, “Five marching bands are set to perform. The Cardinal Marching Band from San Bernardino High School will lead the parade. San Gorgonio High School, Indian Springs High School, and the Arroyo Valley High School marching bands will end the parade and lead us all into Arrow Vistas High School for the festival.
“Cheer squads from Arrowview Middle School, Chavez Middle School, Curtis Middle School, Del Vallejo Middle School, Emmerton Elementary School, Fairfax Elementary School, Indian Springs High School, King Middle School, Lytle Creek Elementary School, Marshall Elementary School, Paakumá Elementary, Rio Vista Elementary School, San Gorgonio High School and Urbita Elementary School will perform, along with Steppers from Fairfax Elementary and Cajon High,” added Ward.
Black History Festival Details:
- Date: Saturday, February 1, 2025
- Time: 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. immediately after the parade until 3:00 p.m.
- Location: Arroyo High School, 1881 W. Base Line St., San Bernardino
According to Dameron, the festival will feature various vendors, performers, and community organizations. Attendees can enjoy delicious food, cultural arts, and live entertainment, including comedians, dancers, and singers.
About the Black Culture Foundation
The Black Culture Foundation’s purpose “…is to foster an interest and a greater understanding of Black culture, to heighten community awareness of the accomplishments of Black people, past and present, and to plan, coordinate and direct an annual Black History Month parade and related cultural activities…and bridge the gaps across cultural lines by bringing the local community together to celebrate this event in unity.”
For more information about the Black Culture Foundation, go to SBBCFoundation.org.
