Ancestry and community activities took center stage at the 37th Annual DuSable Arts and Crafts Fair Saturday and Sunday.
Ancestry and community activities took center stage at the 37th Annual DuSable Arts and Crafts Fair Saturday and Sunday.
The festival’s theme, Back to Our Roots, was represented throughout the two-day event. There were movie screenings, lectures and discussions highlighting pivotal moments in African ancestry. Children were invited onto the customized DuSable bus for storytelling.
The We Are Africa Road Tour 2011 celebrated the importance of genetic, historical and cultural connections to Africa.
Representatives were on hand to answer questions about DNA testing. The comprehensive testing traces genealogical ancestry prior to slavery.
Additionally, this year’s fair marked a return to the way the museum, founded by the late Margaret Burroughs, put on the event in the past. Carol Adams, Ph.D, is now head of the renowned cultural institution.
Starting this year, the festival will go back to being held the second weekend in July. It also goes back to featuring original works of art from local artists only.
And to achieve that family reunion feeling organizers wanted the fair to have, Saturday there was a special Flash Mob community dancing event in support of First Lady Michelle Obama’s “Lets’ Move! Museums and Gardens“ campaign.
Saturday’s entertainment also included the Sankofa Jam Session with Spin Doctor DJ EZ Street.
Sunday there were long lines to catch a glimpse of actor – and now author – Isaiah Washington, who signed copies of his new book, A Man From Another Land: How Finding My Roots Changed My Life.
The main stage again hosted a variety of musical artists. R&B music group, Kindred the Family Soul closed out the festival with a main stage interview and performance.
Copyright 2011 Chicago Defender
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