Bubba Wallace collaborated with the community last Friday (July 5) to host the 2nd Annual Bubba’s Block Party, featuring Chicago hip-hop icon Twista. The event took place at Douglass Park and presented local Black-owned food vendors, businesses, and musicians in a family-friendly gathering on Chicago's West Side.
Last year, in 2023, the #23 driver organized a similar block party at the DuSable Black History Museum.
Back in 2021, Bubba Wallace carved out his place in history by becoming the first African-American driver to win a NASCAR Cup Series race in over 50 years, a milestone last achieved by Wendell Scott in 1963. Since then, Bubba has actively shared his journey in NASCAR, tackling questions about becoming a race car driver or working in the industry. His goal is to enhance inclusivity, champion diversity, and motivate future generations to get involved with the sport.
"Bubba's Block Party" aims to bring the community together and enlighten attendees in a vibrant, family-friendly setting. Bubba Wallace himself celebrated the event's success in a video shared by 23XI Racing on their official X account. In the video, Bubba Wallace expressed his enthusiasm, saying:
"We are here in Chicago, Douglas Park, love his block party, round two for Chicago. Big success last year, wanting to make it even bigger and better. [...] I think the biggest thing is obviously getting more involved in our sport here. And this allows you to go up to courage to come out and fight, take it and be a part of race.
"Bubba Block Party was a hit, winding down. Man such a good turnout though that's what it's all about people feeling comfortable in their own skin and an environment that represents them. That's what Bubba's Block Party is here for. Hope you guys will be at the next one. All in all, success. appreciate you guys."
"We ain't stopping" - Bubba Wallace after his second edition of Bubba's Block Party
After the party was over, Bubba Wallace took to his X account to share his reviews on hosting a successful event. He uploaded photos from the party with the caption:
"Bubba’s block party was a success! So humbled to play a role in welcoming new faces to this sport with events like these. We've come a long way and we ain't stopping ✌🏾"
In a conversation with Fox 32 Chicago, Wallace expressed his sense of duty toward his community. Being visually distinct from his competitors, he emphasized that representation matters to him, which is why the Block Party holds significant value in his eyes.
Following the event in Chicago, despite a challenging encounter with Alex Bowman at the race that led to a 13th-place finish, Bubba Wallace is now gearing up to chase a win and improve his standing at the upcoming race at Pocono Raceway.