BALTIMORE, MD - A couple things about black culture is we are known for throwing down in the kitchen with amazing dishes and our stylish choice of clothing. Nobody can disagree that we also have music intertwined in our roots. AFRAM brought all of that and more to the table as it showcased black excellence throughout the duration of Juneteenth weekend while celebrating Hip-Hop's 50th year anniversary!
CREDIT : Mikayla Perry | The Isley Brothers
Often times black businesses do not get their well deserved credit because of what seems to be a never ending list of reasons. I spoke to vendors at the festival about how AFRAM emphasizes black excellence. "I think AFRAM is really good about making sure black businesses shine" says Makayla Davis. "I definitely think having AFRAM here and having all the different artists come from around puts a positive light on Baltimore". AFRAM had three different stages where artists performed, one was dedicated to smaller local artists trying to come up. The main stage was where the stars were. People from all around was anxious as each celebrity came onto the stage.
AFRAM isn't an event that only young people go to, there were people from all ages groups. I spoke to another vendor as he talked about AFRAM's ability to bring everyone together as a community and a network. "I think it's important for a community and people to come together" says Toluwaloju Runsewe. "I've networked with like five people, just now in this event". The possibles are endless at community events like this. What adds the cherry on top is the fact that AFRAM is free both days for everyone to attend.
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Participating in community events like this is vital to adding on to the line of black excellence. It's vital to breaking generational curses. Events like AFRAM could be the beginning of something great. It's events like this that bring people together and show love to not only the black community, but to all communities. It's events like this that would make our ancestors smile. Festivities like this should continue on for years to come, but it will only do so with the participation of the communities nearby.
It always starts within the community. We have to lift each other up to give everybody recognition. If we don't do it, who will? We can definitely count on our brothers and sisters at AFRAM to pull families together for fun times and most importantly support. All you have to do is bring yourself, friends, family, a little cash to support small businesses and some bug spray, because you will need it. Make sure to check out AFRAM next year as it is expected to be even bigger and more successful, we cannot wait! You do not want to miss this.
By, Mikayla Perry
Contributions: The City of Baltimore
Photo: Mikayla Perry
Video: WMAR-2 News
Video: Mikayla Perry
EDUCATE YOURSELF
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