On a sunny fall day, the celebration of African Heritage Month Parade and Festival was without a doubt a great success. Indeed, on Saturday September 25th 2021, this epic event took place in Harlem at the Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Building, in the legendary 125th Street, known internationally as the Black Mecca of the world and also as a melting pot of works cultures
All the necessary ingredients were present for this long-awaited festive gathering in the shimmering colors of Africa: a radiant sun, a large receptive audience and a wide variety of artistes, plus an impressive array of personalities and leaders from different communities.
This outstanding initiative was organized by the African Immigrants Commission of New York and Connecticut (AIC), a community-based organization that advocates for important community issues of concern. It promotes the arts and culture of the African immigrant community in New York and Connecticut. Moreover, it encourages unity among people of different races, creeds, and ethnicities. So the African Heritage Month Parade, a free annual cultural event, is a unique opportunity to recognize and celebrate the efforts of members of the African Diaspora who have distinguished themselves through the power of their talents and achievements.
The celebration started in the early afternoon with the parade in which multiple organizations, elected officials and regular people participated. Then the main festivities kicked off with a touching moment. Indeed, the event paid tribute to Mohamed Bah on the anniversary of his killing. This young black man was shot 8 times to death in 2012 by a police officer. His mother came on stage to commemorate the tragic loss of her son while encouraging the organization to pursue their great work of advocacy for the community. “Mohamed was a student, a taxi driver. He was not a criminal,” she said. “He was shot because of the color of his skin, and also because he was muslim”.
The Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer was present to support the event as well ( center).
“It is such an honor for me to be there. The African community contributes every single day to the city of New York in so many different ways, I can thank you enough” she stated.
In a friendly and fun atmosphere, the audience reveled to the awesome performances of young emerging talented artistes. More than 70 members of the African Diaspora were honored and rewarded for their outstanding contributions. The list of honorees revealed a diversity of profile and activity inclining community leaders, business leaders and journalists. They received citations from the organization and elected officials. AIC was also rewarded with a proclamation from the Manhattan Borough President for their hard work in organizing this big event.
“We will build on African Heritage Month Parade And Festival. We hope to hold it in Harlem next year.” said the President Mory Kouyate.
To be sure, everyone looked very fabulous and glamourous. They rocked their beautiful African traditional clothes while strutting their blue AIC sashes. Actually, it was worthy to be called an authentic African extravaganza. You could feel people’s pride as they danced and mingled together.
The entertainment reached its paroxysm when Ikenga royal African village made an theatrical appearance and performed.
The entertainment reached its paroxysm when Ikenga Royal African Village made a theatrical appearance.. What a great way to finish the day after an enjoyable and exquisite afternoon showcasing the diversity, strength and beauty of Africa and its people. Thanks to African Immigrants Commission of New York and Connecticut for their commitment to continue to glorify the African Diaspora. Merci Beaucoup!
See you next year for another glorious and bigger celebration of African Heritage Month Parade And Festival.
We are ONE people, united all together!
More info: https://www.facebook.com/African-Immigrants-Commission-of-NYCTInc-801162336896121
Email: africanimmigrantscommission@gmail.com
Article By Alizé Utteryn 09/26/2021
Credit photo: Inside the Diaspora.
