African Festival of the Arts 2015 (Photos + Video) #AFAChi



Every Labor Day weekend in Chicago is the annual African Festival of the Arts. Last year, I was honored to be apart of the amazing four day event as a model for the fashion show. This year, I layed back and enjoyed the food, people, performances, artwork, supported some vendors and the beautiful, positive vibes. Although this is only my second year attending the African Festival, this is definitely one of my favorite summer festivals in Chicago.

Tiebu Djeun from Yassa Senegalese Restaurant

Held in Chicago's south side Washington Park, the festival has been around for the last twenty six years and celebrates the African diasporic cultures across the globe through the foundation and creation of art. The festival has different "villages" named after continental African empires such as Kush, Nubia, Timbuktu, and Songhay. There are local and international performers and artists that come to perform and celebrate promoting positive and unifying music that's enjoyable for the entire family and people of all ages.

What I love most about this festival is the overall positivity and embracing of African/Black cultures. In a society where everything Black and "Afrocentric" is shamed and devalued, this event gives people who represent different backgrounds of the African diaspora to come together. I love the fact that this event also promotes cooperative economics for local businesses, family, community, and identity. The last day of the festival is on Labor Day, I highly recommend everyone go out and enjoy.

Photos: Courtesy of KLT Photos

Maffe also from Yassa






Drum Village performers

Drum Village performers









One can never have enough shea butter and black soap


Video: Drum Village









CONVERSATION

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