The International African Arts Festival Celebrates 50 Years of Fun in Building Unity
Originally founded by activists to support The East, a legendary cultural center, the International African Arts Festival has grown from a one-block festival to be one of the largest events of its kind and celebrated its 50th anniversary at Commodore Barry Park in downtown Brooklyn. Photo: Lem Peterkin
by Maitefa Angaza
All Photos by Lem Peterkin
The 50th Anniversary International African Arts Festival (IAAF) was a balm for the Black soul. Although reference was made to the trying and tragic times we’ve survived since last we gathered, the warmth, creativity and beauty of the people was healing and enlivening. And despite a relatively light turnout due to rain the first two days, the third and final day of the abbreviated comeback schedule was packed with happy people. The ancestors recent, historical and spiritual were paid consistent homage and we were all reminded to give thanks for our