#USA #Los Angeles #Julien's Auctions #TCM #Harry Belafonte

Exclusive Auction Event: Honoring Harry Belafonte

Julien's Auctions in collaboration with Turner Classic Movies (TCM) is set to celebrate the remarkable legacy of the legendary artist, humanitarian, and civil rights leader, Harry Belafonte, with an exclusive auction titled "Harry Belafonte: A Man of Action." Scheduled for March 6, 2025, in Los Angeles, this event will showcase a unique collection of nearly 400 items that span Belafonte's illustrious career, emphasizing his profound impact on both the entertainment industry and social justice movements.

A Celebration of an Icon

Belafonte, renowned for his exceptional talents and passionate activism, utilized his celebrity status to advocate for civil rights and social change. His contributions extend across multiple decades, championing causes such as the American Civil Rights Movement, opposition to the Vietnam War, the fight against apartheid, LGBTQ+ rights, and environmental issues. This auction not only honors his artistic accomplishments but also celebrates his role as a catalyst for positive societal change.

Highlights of the Auction

Among the auction highlights are rare items and memorabilia that speak to Belafonte's extraordinary journey:

• - A signed lead sheet from the iconic charity song "We Are the World," featuring autographs from famous artists like Bruce Springsteen and Cyndi Lauper, estimated between $30,000 to $50,000.
• - Artifacts associated with Martin Luther King Jr., including a leather sofa used by King in Belafonte's New York apartment (estimate: $3,000-5,000) and a signed letter from the Southern Christian Leadership Conference from 1964 (estimate: $5,000-7,000).
• - Musical instruments and mementos such as a West African drum from the "An Evening with Harry Belafonte & Friends" special.
• - A gold record award for "Belafonte at Carnegie Hall" (estimate: $800-$1,200) and a signed letter from President John F. Kennedy (estimate: $3,000-$5,000).

These items not only represent Belafonte's artistic excellence but also signify the historical context in which he fought for crucial social issues. Other auction pieces will include artworks, writings by friends and fellow activists, and memorabilia highlighting his work in the entertainment industry.

Special Events and Collaborations

In a related effort to amplify the impact of this auction, Julien's Auctions and TCM will host a special screening of the acclaimed documentary "Following Harry" on February 19, 2025. This event will feature a panel discussion with the documentary's director Susanne Rostock, Black Music Action Coalition CEO Willie "Prophet" Stiggers, GRAMMY-nominated artist Aloe Blacc, and GRAMMY Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Chuck D from Public Enemy. This gathering will provide a valuable opportunity to delve deeper into the life and contributions of Harry Belafonte.

Attend the Auction

The auction will take place both in-person in Los Angeles and online at juliensauctions.com, allowing enthusiasts and collectors from around the world to participate in this historic event. Fans of Harry Belafonte and supporters of civil rights are encouraged to engage with the auction and witness the influence of a man whose artistry intertwined deeply with activism.

This is more than just an auction; it is a tribute to a figure who personified action through his art, proving that entertainment can serve as a powerful platform for social justice. By participating in this auction, one can own a piece of history that speaks to the heart of cultural and societal transformation led by Harry Belafonte.