Gabrielle Union-Wade doesn’t just act—she acts up when it matters. She’s called out on-set racism, championed assault survivors, and campaigned for LGBTQ+ equality. Yeah, she’s a movie star—but she’s also been rallying for the Black community for a long time. And now? She’s doing it even louder, on a stage way bigger than Hollywood.

That stage? The 2025 American Black Film Festival. June 11–15 transforms Miami Beach into the beating heart of Black cinema, culture, and creativity. Beyond films, ABFF delivers thought-provoking panels, breakout premieres, and a Miami Beach alive with cultural energy. Can’t make it to the beach? ABFF’s going digital too, with screenings and events streaming from June 16–24 on ABFF PLAY.

Union joins this year’s featured speakers alongside Chris Paul, Jemele Hill, Blair Underwood, Ashanti, and more, as reported by Vibe. From thought-provoking panels to spotlight screenings—including work from Jermaine Dupri, Tyler Perry Studios, and a nostalgic Love Jones sit-down with Nia Long and Larenz Tate—this year’s ABFF is packed with moments that matter.

It’s a full-on celebration of culture and conversation. “We’re excited to return to Miami Beach with an inspiring lineup of cultural icons and changemakers,” said NICE CROWD President Nicole Friday—and it shows. This year’s ABFF screenings are coming with a serious impact. STARZ’s Magic City: An American Fantasy, will be followed by a conversation with executive producers Jermaine Dupri and Cole Brown, while HBO’s Seen and Heard dives deep into Black representation on TV. Also on deck: Tyler Perry Studios’ Old Gray Mare. And if you’re in the mood for laughs, the Because They’re Funny comedy show is back—hosted by D.C. Young Fly and featuring rising stand-up stars like Lamar Jones, Khrissy Y.S.F., and more.

For the first time in its 29-year run, ABFF debuts BOB Talks—highlighting Black-owned brands in a new entrepreneurship track. Well, speaking of BOB… we’ve got to talk about a new venture Gabrielle Union and Dwyane Wade just stepped into—and trust, it’s all about inclusivity.

Gabrielle Union-Wade and Dwyane Wade turned a parenting gap into purpose

When Gabrielle Union-Wade and Dwyane Wade welcomed their daughter Kaavia into the world, they were hit with a reality many parents of color face. There just weren’t enough baby products, especially clothing, made with melanated kids in mind. That gap stuck with them. So, they decided to do something about it. What started with baby care products has now grown into a full-blown baby fashion line. The couple just launched their first-ever baby apparel collection under their brand PROUDLY.

It’s everything you’d expect from two hands-on parents: functional, adorable, and inclusive. “We wanted PROUDLY’s first step into apparel to be with a partner who truly understands our vision – and JCPenney does,” Union said. “It’s about representation, quality and celebrating all families.”

Exclusively at JCPenney, PROUDLY’s launch line features hypoallergenic onesies, footed sleepers, rompers, and two-piece sets. Each item is under $20 and is designed for melanin-rich skin. The clothing line carries forward the same mission that’s been at the heart of PROUDLY since day one. That mission is to offer practical, beautiful solutions for everyday parenting without compromising on style or affordability. “As we continue to work on new endeavors together, our goal is to always center our work around being the change we want to see while championing diversity, equity, and inclusion.”

 PROUDLY was created because Union and Wade couldn’t find what they needed for their own child, and now they’re making sure other parents don’t have to face the same struggle. Their earlier partnership with Dollar General helped bring their skincare line to nearly 20,000 locations across the U.S. and Mexico. Teaming up with JCPenney for this new venture takes that reach even further. With PROUDLY, they’re rewriting the standard for what baby products can look like when inclusivity is the starting point. N an afterthought.

From the spotlight of the silver screen to the frontlines of cultural change, Gabrielle Union continues to use every platform to uplift, represent, and disrupt. As a featured speaker at the 2025 American Black Film Festival, she’s not just showing up—she’s showing out, reminding us that when Gabrielle speaks, the culture listens.