Opening Session, Remember Who You Are Identity Summit

Remember Who Your Are Identity Summit
Opening
Session

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African Ancestry helps people across the Diaspora reclaim the legacy of their past to discover the greatness in themselves.

It's in your DNA

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With experts in Psychology, Economics, History, Science and the Arts, we explore how our identities are impacted by various historical, cultural and social frameworks, and how we can use this knowledge to build a stronger self and community.

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Celebrate Your Blackness

From the people who have paved the way to the places that inspire us to the spaces that have become sacred, come with us on the journey.

The African Influence on Cuba's Rumba Music

Rumba is a secular genre of Afro-Cuban music involving dance, percussion and song. It’s full of energy, powerful and hypnotizing. The music is unapologetically derived from its West African roots, with percussion music weaved into up-tempo rhythms. The Rumba was traditionally performed by poor workers of African descent on the streets and in courtyards using wooden boxes that were eventually replaced by conga drums. Today, Rumba remains one of Cuba's most characteristic forms of music and dance.

The African Influence on Cuba's Rumba Music

Rumba is a secular genre of Afro-Cuban music involving dance, percussion and song. It’s full of energy, powerful and hypnotizing. The music is unapologetically derived from its West African roots, with percussion music weaved into up-tempo rhythms. The Rumba was traditionally performed by poor workers of African descent on the streets and in courtyards using wooden boxes that were eventually replaced by conga drums. Today, Rumba remains one of Cuba's most characteristic forms of music and dance.

Celia Cruz's African Roots

PART II of our focus on Latin Music Legend Celia Cruz reveals the present-day African country and ethnic group that shares her maternal ancestry.

Celia Cruz and Afro-Cuban Identity

This month we celebrate Afro-Cuban identity and culture by honoring Latin Music Legend Celia Cruz. PART I introduces us to Ms. Celia Cruz through her nieces Celia Cody and Linda Pritchett.

The Roots of Josh Gibson

Watch as Sean Gibson and Melva Brown learn more about Josh Gibson's African maternal ancestry. Josh was an American Negro league baseball catcher known by historians as one of the very best power hitters and catchers in the history of any league, including MLB.