By Brandon Johnson
Staff Writer
Kuumba Fest 2014 “Black to Love, Family & Power” was the the 22nd year of this enriching Black History Month celebration presented by the African-American Advisory Council of San Diego Rep, and was held once again at the Lyceum Theatre. Focused on education and empowering black families through music, plays and an ongoing effort to draw light to the contributions and of our culture, Kuumba Fest has also continued to uplift the members of the community who have consistently strived to bring change to their community and their people. For their continued excellence, this year Kuumba Fest honored Mr. Charles T. Robinson, Cup Cake Brown, Mr. and Mrs. Croom, Remi Adeleke, Starla Lewis, Janice Todd, Tawani Owns, Perry Sherrod and Brandon Steepe. As always, each recipient was awarded based on their connection to one of the seven principles of Kwanzaa.
This year’s 3-day event from February 14-16th focused on family, mind, body and spirit. The first evening was focused on presenting A Night of Positive Images which highlighted the beauty of black people. It showcased the African Market Place which was filled with exotic vendors, the always popular Royal Court Awards Ceremony and ended with the comedic play “Black 2 Love” which shared the importance of family and traditions.
Day two, aptly themed “Positive Challenges Saturday,” featured educational workshops, and a youth and community empowerment showcase entitled “Crown Me Bold.” There was Taste of Soul which allowed guests to try the cuisine of local black-owned businesses, and Black F.A.T. which held The Parade of History, an educational look great African Pharaohs, Kings and Queens and a keynote address from Dr. Umar Johnson. The night concluded with “Late Night Live” a tribute to Harlem’s Apollo Theatre.
As Sundays are recognized as a day of spiritual upliftment, the Fest hosted a praise-filled Gospel Concert, clean comedy as well as the production “It’s Just Not the Blues,” a play that examined the depths of mental struggles and the love of family.
Coordinator Dajahn Blevins shared, “we are very excited to be debuting local plays focused on love, healthy families, mental health and unity.”
