By Tihut Tamrat, Contributing Writer
From June 28th to June 30th, the San Diego Urban Warriors, spearheaded by their CEO, Dajahn Blevins, partnered with the Far South Border North to host their 32nd Annual Kuumba Festival. Kuumba Festival celebrates the positive lifestyle changes made over the year, provides cultural resources in the African Market Place, positive powerful healing images, and spiritual celebrations for the entire family. This year the festival focused on Black II Restoration “Reclaiming Our Tools”. The festival featured Black culture, art, and talent, unique exotic vendors, dance showcases, an african drum and dance workshop, encouragement awards, and much more.
On June 28th at 6pm, the “Night of Positive Images” was first, with the opening of the African Market Pace, pre-show entertainment and shopping, and drum call. At 7pm, The Annual Night of African American Heritage commenced with the honoring of ancestors and empowering of the future through the pageantry of the Royal Court, the “Honors Spot Light Ceremony”; ancient African history coming to life through the “Parade of the Ancestors”, from ancient Kemet to Paul Cuffe. During intermission, the “Best Dressed Contest” took place, with the award going to the outfit that received a lot of shouts, closing with a dynamic Keynote Speaker, Derrick Banks, on Reclaiming our Tools for Restoration. The room was filled with people of all ages there to witness true African artistry.
The next day, June 29th was the “Day & Night of Positive Challenges”. Mr. Black Culture Art & Talent San Diego opened the African Market Place including the Youth & Family Challenge Village: a special day of youth and family fun challenges. Next, was the African Martial Arts youth demonstration featuring the art of self defense of Capoeira. Shortly after, Kuumba Kidz Youth Play: The Principle of the Matter, performed on stage through music, dance, and drama. Later that evening, “Najite & Olokun Prophecy” put on a concert that included drum, dance, afrobeats music, and celebration, getting everyone off their feet grooving with the music.
June 30th, closing day, was a day filled with spiritual rejuvenation and more uplifting music. The Royal Seasoned Elders Village spoiled guests that are 60+ with pampering, massages, and special care. Over the course of the three days, guests were treated to fun, entertainment, and traditional African foods ending with the finale, presented by David Dredden & Undefeated, of hand clapping and foot stomping to call upon the spirits to rejuvenate, ending the fun and entertainment-filled weekend.
