The festival at Abner Clay Park in Jackson Ward is a celebration of the link between the American South and West African and African American cultural traditions.
Royster views these genealogy projects as having the potential to promote healing and mental health. The knowledge gained might fill a void that can t otherwise be filled, she said. And the resulting sense of connectivity might enhance feelings of kinship and stem community violence.
The 32nd Annual Down Home Family Re- union will bring music, dance, stories, food, shopping and enrichment to Jackson Ward’s Abner Clay Park on Saturday, Aug. 19. Presented by the Elegba Folklore Society, this year’s cultural arts festival highlights “A Celebration of African American Folklife.”