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Welcome
to the Hefflin Legacy Foundation

Discover the extraordinary legacy of Leon Hefflin Sr. through books, exhibitions, educational programs, and community engagement. Join us for Moments in Legacy, a special exhibition celebrating the life and impact of one of Los Angeles' most influential cultural pioneers.

Moments In Legacy

Moments in Legacy is a multimedia exhibition celebrating the life and legacy of Leon Hefflin Sr., producer of the Cavalcade of Jazz, the nation's first annual jazz festival. Through rare photographs, historic artifacts, original research, and stories drawn from Deborah Swan's landmark book, visitors will experience a remarkable chapter of American cultural history.

Don't wait to purchase tickets.


Capacity is limited, and some events may sell out in advance.

      Exhibition Highlights

  • Rare historical photographs

  • Original Cavalcade of Jazz program covers

  • Stories from the newly released book

  • Leon Hefflin Sr.'s contributions to Los Angeles history

  • Special opening reception and live jazz experiences

Opening Reception – June 7

Juneteenth Celebration – June 19

Artist Talk & Panel – June 28

Open Mic/Jam Session – July 17

Closing Reception – July 26

 Signed books and exhibition posters will be available during the exhibit.

Learn More About Moments in Legacy

Visit our Events Page for exhibition details, special programs, ticket information, and updates.

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Enjoy highlights from our recent book signing event at BAAB, Greet & Meet at the City Club book signing, and watch the official Book Launch video on the EVENTS page.

Order Your Copy Today! 

Be part of history. Click below to order The Impresario: Leon Hefflin and the World’s First Annual Jazz Festival directly.

📦 Please remember to add shipping costs to your order

if you’d like your book mailed to you.

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On June 21, 2025, supporters from all walks of life gathered to celebrate the enduring legacy of Leon Hefflin Sr. — visionary behind the Cavalcade of Jazz and pioneer of Black entertainment history.

Discover how we're preserving Leon Hefflin Sr.’s legacy through culture, education, and community impact.

From speaking engagements to fundraisers, explore the vibrant gatherings that keep our mission alive.

See the creative and cultural initiatives we’ve launched to uplift and empower future generations.

Find out how you can support the movement and become part of the Hefflin Legacy story.

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Welcome to the Hefflin Legacy Foundation

“It is our belief, despite the great slump in the entertainment world, that the field will continue to cement better race relations more than any other.”

- Leon Hefflin, Sr.

The Calvacade of Jazz Program

“I think it is absolutely wonderful and so important. I love the personal elements you added, the poems, the historical context, and the photos. I can’t wait to see it in print!”

Hadley Meares, a writer, historian, and journalist known for her work with Curbed and Atlas Obscura. She leads LA history tours and just released her debut novel, Absolutely, now on Amazon.

Keeping Leon Hefflin, Sr. Legacy Alive

How can anyone talk about Central Ave and not mention the Cavalcade of Jazz or Leon Hefflin, Sr.  It’s unthinkable and unforgivable!  It’s like talking about Paris and not mentioning the Eiffel Tower.  Yet his story is so much more than Jazz support.

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Black Wings Children’s Museum Support

The Black Wings Children’s Museum is a space created for the staff and students at Windsor Hills Math, Science, and Aerospace Magnet that showcases the African-American contributions to aerospace.  It is more impressive than the Washington DC exhibit! The span of information included Eugene Bullard to all 20 astronauts. Science academies, NASA live chats with scientists conducting research, and other events were used to promote diversity in science and jazz education.

Victor Hill from Boeing, guest speaker at the 7th Anniversary of the Black Wings Children's Museum, sponsored by HLF.

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Step Into the Legacy

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Take a visual journey from the vibrant 1920s to the powerful moments of today as we prepare to launch the first ever Legacy book on Leon Hefflin, Sr.'s life . These select snapshots highlight just a glimpse of the events and celebrations we've hosted to honor his enduring impact.

📸 Tap below to explore the full gallery and see how we continue to keep the legacy alive through every era.

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Don’t Miss a Moment

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