Experience the Joy of Heritage at the 12th Annual Charlotte African American Festival

A Celebration of Culture

The vibrant city of Charlotte is set to come alive this Saturday with the 12th annual Charlotte African American Festival, a day filled with food, music, dancing, and a celebration of African American heritage and achievements. This festival, held in the heart of Uptown, invites everyone to immerse themselves in the rich cultural tapestry that has shaped the community.

Festival Highlights

One of the key attractions of this year’s festival is the performance by the Queen City Senior African Drummers and Dancers. Channel 9’s Elsa Gillis recently got a glimpse of what to expect, highlighting the profound connection these artists have with their roots. The group’s leader, Elisha Minter, expressed the significance of their music, stating, “We offer God’s heartbeat through the drums, and we try to encourage all that hear us to know that there is a higher power as well as the importance of our culture.”

The Importance of Cultural Legacy

Celebrating African American accomplishments and culture isn’t just a one-day affair at this festival; it’s a year-round mission for groups like the Queen City Senior African Drummers and Dancers. Elisha emphasized the need for children to understand their cultural heritage: “It’s so important to our children that they know that this that we do has inspired everything that they’re hearing now, the African drums, the beats that we play.” This generational connection serves as a vital link to the past and an inspiration for the future.

Movement and Music

For the drummers and dancers, music and movement are more than performance art; they are a direct connection to the traditions of their ancestors. Azalee Williams, a member of the group, remarked on the significance of their practice: “We are still giving movement as our ancestors did.” Showcasing their dedication, the group comprises women all over the age of 55, with a remarkable 97-year-old among them.

Williams further stressed how their performances serve as a beacon of hope and resilience to younger generations: “Being seniors, that is an example to the younger generation that it’s not over ‘til it’s over. And as long as God gives us breath and a talent or a gift, we should use it.”

A Call for Visibility

Through their performances, the drummers and dancers aim to amplify a crucial message: “We need to be seen. We need to be heard,” Minter declared emphatically. Their music not only entertains but also conveys a deep narrative of history, culture, and community—one that must not be forgotten.

Community Involvement

The African American Festival is more than just an event; it’s an open invitation for the community to come together, learn, and celebrate. Occurring from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Carole Hoefener Center, this festival is free to all participants, ensuring that it is accessible for everyone.

In a world where cultural awareness and understanding are more important than ever, events like the Charlotte African American Festival play a pivotal role in fostering unity and appreciation among diverse communities. Come and partake in this joyful celebration of heritage—where every drumbeat tells a story, and every dance move keeps the spirit of the ancestors alive.