If you’re looking for educational activities to celebrate Juneteenth this summer, join us at the Ware Center for special performances and hands-on cultural activities hosted by the Imani Edu-Trainers African Dance Company, a non-profit organization that promotes community awareness, appreciation, and understanding of African culture and community enlightenment.
Juneteenth is the oldest known celebration commemorating the legal end of slavery in the U.S. and is sometimes referred to as “the second Independence Day.” Today, celebrations of Juneteenth focus on African American freedom and the arts. Millersville University will be closed on June 20th in observance of the holiday.
“It’s revolutionary that this date and its significance is recognized on the federal level,” said Amy Banks, the arts communication manager at the Ware Center. “I’m glad our community and Millersville University are coming together in celebration and honor of cultural traditions that are deeply embedded in the fabric of our society.”
SATURDAY, JUNE 18
- 7:30 p.m.
Imani’s 25th Annual Concert – The Calabash: The African Gourd: Imani’s dynamic performances will celebrate the rich cultural history of traditional West African dance, drum and song. A variety of vendors will be in the lobby before and after the show. [TICKETS: $25]
SUNDAY, JUNE 19
- 12:30 – 1:15 p.m.
Mommy/Dad & ME Dance Class: This class provides parents and children cultural learning experiences using West African dance platform. [FREE]
- 1:30 – 2 p.m.
Shadowkeepers & Roothealers – The Original OG’s: Visit this art installation at the Ware Center and meet the artist, Gracie Berry. This exhibit pays homage and is an Afro-futurist altar to Obatala, Olokun and Orunmila, three of the eldest Orisha Gods, from the Yoruba religion in West Afrika. [FREE]
- 2:15 – 3 p.m.
ZOOM in on Yoruba Culture: Led by Professor, Oloye (Chief) Karade. This virtual lecture will allow for a 10-minute Q&A session. [FREE]
- 3:15 – 4 p.m.
It’s a Wrap: Learn how to wrap a traditional African gele (head tie) and ero (wrapped skirt). This session provides two yards of traditional African fabric. Class size is limited to 15 participants on a first-come, first-serve basis. [FREE]
- 3:15 – 4 p.m.
Say it with a Symbol: Use West African Adinkra symbols and mask stencils to design your IMANI t-shirt. Class size is limited to 15 participants on a first-come, first-serve basis. [FREE]
- 4 – 5 p.m.
Let’s Dance: Join us for a community dance class celebrating Juneteenth led by IMANI staff. [FREE]
Please be advised that free activities are on a first-come, first-serve basis and space is limited. Your ticket allows admission but does not guarantee a spot in the workshops.
Looking for more arts events? Check out our calendar here.