Sankofa: A Journey Through the African Diaspora Experience
Sankofa: A Journey Through the African Diaspora Experience
“Sankofa: A Journey Through the African Diaspora Experience” is an interdisciplinary cultural performance that delves into the rich history, struggles, resilience, and triumphs of people of African descent. The program is designed to celebrate diverse cultural expressions through the powerful mediums of music, dance, and the spoken word. It is anchored by the principle of “Sankofa” — an Akan word from Ghana that translates to “go back and fetch it,” symbolizing the importance of understanding and reconnecting with one’s roots. The performance thus invites participants to reflect on the past, reclaim cultural heritage, and celebrate ongoing journeys.
Performed by members of Art of Black Dance and Music, Inc., under the direction of arts educator and founder De Ama Battle, this multifaceted program blends artistic performances with educational elements, offering a multi-sensory exploration of shared cultural histories and their global impact. Audiences will experience ancestral traditions, the roots of the Black American experience, and the many ways these influences have shaped and continue to shape music, movement, and storytelling across generations and continents.