The Jazz African Heritage Movement (JAH) celebrated the 20th Anniversary of Freedom Day, a commemoration of South African Freedom and Democracy, at the legendary Claver Place, near Fulton Street in Brooklyn on April 26, 2014.
In the spirit of Jitu Weusi, this cultural celebration embraced activism and the arts through music, dance, art, and cuisine from the African diaspora with a special tribute to the Republic of South Africa.
Jitu’s Jazz African Heritage Block Party continues the legacy of JAH by building a bridge between Africans here and on the continent. The Block Party featured jazz bands from South Africa and NYC. Young people from the Brooklyn United Marching Band will perform; youth created South African influenced artwork sponsored by Brooklyn Artistry.
The Diaspora Artmart display original pieces of fashion from their designer’s collections. Poet Lisa Muhammad graced the stage and there were many more activities for the entire family. To ensure that activism is tied into Jitu’s passions for arts and culture, there also messages were given from individuals and organizations addressing economic, social, and political issues on the continent of Africa.