Edited by Azizi Powell
This is Part II of a three part pancocojams series on the song "Funga Alafia".
This pancocojams post showcases three video examples of Funga Alafia songs and/or dances.
Selected comments from one of these videos' discussion threads are also included in this post.
Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2019/04/the-real-origin-of-song-funga-alafia.html for Part I of this pancocojams series. Part I corrects widely found misinformation about the provenance (origin/source) of the song "Funga Alafia".
Click https://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2019/04/two-youtube-videos-of-baba-olatunji.html for Part III of this pancocojams series. Part III showcases two YouTube videos of Nigerian master drummer Babatunde Olatunji performing "Fanga".
Selected comments from these videos' discussion threads are also included in this post.
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The content of this post is presented for cultural, entertainment, and aesthetic purposes.
All copyrights remain with their owners.
Thanks to Larocque Bey, the composer of the song "Funga Alafia". Thanks to all those who quoted in this post and all those who are featured in these videos. Thanks also to the publishers of these videos on YouTube.
-snip-
An earlier version of this pancocojams series was published in 2011. Click http://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2011/11/the-funga-alafia-fanga-song-part-3.html for that post. That post showcases other YouTube examples of Funga Alafia other than those that are found in this post. Links to Part I and Part II are found on that page. Part I provides information about the history of the song "Funga Alafia" and Part II provides some lyric examples of that song.
****
SHOWCASE VIDEOS
These videos are presented in chronological order, based on their publishing date with the oldest videos presented first.
Video #1: Nana Malaya - "Funga Alafia"
The Kennedy Center, Published on Oct 9, 2013
The Millennium Stage partners with the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority to present some of the best D.C. area street performers in a MetroPerforms! Showcase.
-snip-
Here's a comment that I posted to that video's discussion thread in 2016:
"Alafia, Nana Malaya!
I'm glad that I happened upon this video of your and your drummers' performance of "Funga Alafia".
I'm proud to know you.
Here's some information about this multifaceted dancer, choreographer, speaker, teacher, and entrepreneur:
Nana Malaya is originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. One of her children is movie and television actor Lamman Rucker.
The poem "I Am the Original Dance Machine" (3:20 in this video) was written by New York City dancer/choreographer Bob Johnson, who also lived in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and in 1969/1970 was the founder of the Pittsburgh Black Theater Dance Ensemble. Nana Malaya was a member of this esteemed dance company.
Ase, Nana Malaya!"
-snip-
Here are some additional comments from this YouTube video's discussion thread
1. Jimi Cyber, 2015
"Pearl Primus, (1919-1994),the anthropologist and choreographer of African dance introduced Funga to the USA. "Movements and gestures are a language as Ms. Primus spoke the dance story." Quote from Dr. DeAma Battle of Art of Black Dance and Music."
**
REPLY
2.Malaya Rucker-Oparabea, 2017
"I DANCED AND TOURED WITH MS PEARL PRIMUS!!!"
**
REPLY
3. Susan Kennedy, 2018
"Jimi and Malaya,I have always had great respect for Ms. Primus. Not many know about her, more people know about Ms. Dunham. I got burned out about this song in the elementary music teaching circles, but remembering that Ms. Primus introduced Funga to the US brings back its relevance for me. Thank you!"
**
4. Mattdog2020, 2017
"We had a huge group of African people come and do this at my school 20 years ago."
**
5. Bluegirl12865 MSP, 2019
"is it sad that I think I’m the only that had to sing this recently when I’m in 6th grade because all the comments I see are about those peoples singing it in elementary? :/
-snip-
There's a lot of comments on this discussion thread and on other discussion threads for YouTube videos of "Funga Alafia" about children learning and singing this song in school. Presumably, most of these comments are from the United States. However, one commenter (on another YouTube discussion thread) wrote that his school sung this song in Norway.
I think this is one of a very small number of "African" songs that are taught in United States schools- which is kinda ironic since this song isn't from Africa.
****
Video #2: Funga Alafia
Roxanne Smith, Published on Sep 5, 2014
5th Graders performing Funga Alafia a welcoming song.
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Video #3: Funga Alafia - West African Song- Kipp Academy DC
Callaloo TV, Published on Jul 28, 2017
The Callaloo Team leads a cultural music workshop at Kipp Academy, DC Benning Road, SE Washington, DC
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This concludes Part II of this two part pancocojams series.
Thanks for visiting pancocojams.
Videos comments are welcome.
Showing posts with label African dancing and drumming. Show all posts
Showing posts with label African dancing and drumming. Show all posts
Sunday, April 28, 2019
Monday, December 18, 2017
Videos Of Kwanzaa Celebrations In The United States & In Canada
Edited by Azizi Powell
This pancocojams post showcases video examples of Kwanzaa celebrations. Seven of these celebrations were videotaped in the United States and one was videotaped in Canada.
The content of this post is presented for cultural, entertainment, and aesthetic purposes.
All copyrights remain with their owners.
Thanks to Maulana Karenga for creating the Kwanzaa holiday. Thanks to all those who are featured in these videos. Thanks also to the publishers of these videos on YouTube.
Click the Kwanzaa tab for more pancocojams posts about this African American originated holiday.
****
PANCOCOJAMS EDITOR'S NOTE
Many of these videos of Kwanzaa celebrations may have occurred on the evening of the sixth day of Kwanzaa. Here's a write up about that day"
from http://www.holidays.net/kwanzaa/7days.htm
"Kuumba
On the sixth day the black candle is lit, then the farthest left red, the farthest right green, the next red, the next green and then the final red candle. This represents the 6th principle of Kwanzaa – Kuumba (koo-OOM-bah): Creativity.
The sixth day, which occurs on New Years Eve, is a special day. This is the day of the Kwanzaa Karamu or Kwanzaa Feast. In the spirit of celebration many families invite their friends and family to join in the festivities.
Create a party atmosphere with additional Kwanzaa decorations. Dress up in traditional or traditional inspired clothing. Play African or African American music. Cook your favorite foods and special holiday dishes. Invite your guests to contribute to the feast by bringing along their favorite dishes. The children and/or the Adults can perform plays, read uplifting passages, poems or stories. Maybe one of the adults will be a story teller for the day. Remember the principle of the day is Kuumba (creativity). So be creative!!
On this special day we remember our ancestors when the Unity cup is shared. After everyone has taken a drink the candles are extinguished.
But before the Karamu is over, the eldest member of those present will read the Tamshi La Tutaonana (TAM-shi la Tu-ta-u-NA-na). The Tamshi La Tutaonana was written by Dr. Karenga, the creator of Kwanzaa, as a farewell statement to the feast and the year.
Everyone stands as the elder reads:
Then the elder leads the guests in the Harambee (ha-RAM-bee) salute. Each person raises their right fist about as high as their shoulder, then pulls down forcefully until the elbow is next to next to their torso, saying “Harambee!” This is done seven times in unison.
This concludes the Karamu celebration."
-snip-
It should be noted that this write up serves as one idea about how these programs can occur.
Some community Kwanzaa gatherings with dancing, drumming, food, and speakers have been held on other nights of Kwanzaa instead of or in addition to the sixth night of Kwanzaa (Kuumba). These community Kwanzaa celebrations are usually open to the public, but largely attended by people who have otherwise participated throughout the year in the sponsoring organization's/organizations' services/activities.
Depending on the sponsoring organization/s, either a few attendees or most of the attendees don't wear African clothing (usually semi-traditional West African fashions.)
Lighting the kinara candle and explaining that day's Kwanzaa principle are always parts of the Kwanzaa events that I've attended. However, gifts are usually not given at these events. Also, I've never heard anyone read the words that are given above in blockquotes. Furthermore, none of the Kwanzaa community events and small gatherings that I've attended over the years included drinking from the unity cup, apart from the first Kwanzaa gathering that I remember in Newark, New Jersey in 1967.
Smaller Kwanzaa parties are also held by family and friends on any night of Kwanzaa. These parties usually center around food and African dancing and drumming. People may or may not wear West African clothing. These parties may showcase a few people performing African dancing and drumming.
In the segment of the video given below as Example #6 (beginning at 5:50) the narrator mentions that small handmade gifts could be given every day of Kwanzaa, and a larger gift given on the last day of Kwanzaa. That is how I remember the Kwanzaa celebrations that I attended in 1967 in Newark, New Jersey, with the larger gift given during the evening of the 6th day of Kwanzaa, at the karamu. However, my experience since then is that gifts are usually not given out at community Kwanzaa events.
The seventh day of Kwanzaa (New Years Day) might have been traditionally considered a day of rest (from communal activities). However, some community organizations might hold an event on that day (instead of on other Kwanzaa days).
****
SHOWCASE EXAMPLES
Example #1: History of Kwanzaa
quartnivell escola, Published on Apr 28, 2008
Kwanzaa
****
Example #2: Sesame Street: Kwanzaa
Sesame Street, Published on Dec 17, 2008
In this clip, a family celebrates Kwanzaa.
Sesame Street is a production of Sesame Workshop, a nonprofit educational organization which also produces Pinky Dinky Doo, The Electric Company, and other programs for children around the world.
****
Example #3: CEA Children @ Kwanzaa 2011 SAFE Passage African Dance
CEApittsburghTV, Published on Jan 6, 2012
Community Empowerment Association's Kwanzaa Celebration 2011. Pittsburgh, PA. December 30, 2011
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Example #4: ACHA Kwanzaa Show featuring The Africentric School Drumming and Dance Ensemble
African-Canadian Heritage, Published on Dec 9, 2013
The Africentric School Drumming and Dance Ensemble performance at the African Canadian Heritage Association annual Kwanzaa Show on Dec 7th at the Warden Wood Community Centre
****
Example #5: Kwanzaa Karamu 2012 - Kuumba performance
Mayaneye, Published on Jan 1, 2013
Taaluma Drum & Dance Company (Culture4mykids) performing for the family during the karamu.
****
Example #6: CELEBRATION episode Kwanzaa segment
craftinamerica.org, Published on Dec 11, 2015
www.craftinamerica.org. CELEBRATION episode Kwanzaa segment. PBS premiere: December 11, 2015...
-snip-
Here's information about the word "ase'" [pronounced "AH-shay") that was spoken near the end of this video:
From https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ase_(Yoruba)
"Ase (or às̩e̩ or ashe [1]) is a West African philosophical concept through which the Yoruba of Nigeria conceive the power to make things happen and produce change. It is given by Olodumare to everything — gods, ancestors, spirits, humans, animals, plants, rocks, rivers, and voiced words such as songs, prayers, praises, curses, or even everyday conversation. Existence, according to Yoruba thought, is dependent upon it.[2]"
**
From http://www.aseire.com/meaning.php
"Ase is generally defined as "the power to make things happen" and also refers to the spiritual life force that flows through things, much like the Chinese concept of chi. Ase can also be used to express agreement -- saying "Ase!" can be like saying "Right on!" Ase is also a way of saying, "so let it be" and is used by Orisa worshippers in the way "amen" would be used by Christians following a prayer."
****
Example #7: 30th Annual Kwanzaafest | Durham, NC | OMNI Documentaries
OMNI Documentaries O.I.C. Media, Published on Jan 3, 2016
Habari Gani? KWANZAA! This year, 2016 was both the 30th annual Kwanzaafest & the 79th birthday of beloved African American Dance Ensemble (AADE) Founder, Baba Chuck Davis! And Bull City, Durham gave a great celebration for all to see! Performances were given by singer Versatyle, praise dancer Min. Fred Jones & theatrical drama from Lynnette Barber. (Go to Instagram account OMNI76 to SEE photos & video clips from the event!) But the true highlight were the combined performances of AADE & its sister dance company from Richmond, Virginia EZIBU MUNTU African Dance & Cultural Foundation! In witnessing the performance, you'll understand why Durham, NC starts off every year in being blessed by this annual extravaganza!
-snip-
The man wearing the gold agbada (robe) is Baba* Chuck Davis ((January 1, 1937 – May 14, 2017),
Baba Chuck Davis "was an American dancer and choreographer whose work focused on traditional African dance in America. He was the founder of DanceAfrica, the Chuck Davis Dance Company and the African American Dance Ensemble." https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chuck_Davis_(dancer)
Baba Chuck Davis helped popularize the call & response attention chant "ago" - "ame".
*"Baba" here is an honorific title of respect for a male elder.
****
Example #8: 2016 Kwanzaa Celebration
TheTriangleTribune, Published on Jan 5, 2016
People came out to celebrate Kwanzaa at the Durham Armory for the annual Kwanzaa Fest presented by Chuck Davis and his African Dance Ensemble.
****
Thanks for visiting pancocojams.
Visitor comments are welcome.
This pancocojams post showcases video examples of Kwanzaa celebrations. Seven of these celebrations were videotaped in the United States and one was videotaped in Canada.
The content of this post is presented for cultural, entertainment, and aesthetic purposes.
All copyrights remain with their owners.
Thanks to Maulana Karenga for creating the Kwanzaa holiday. Thanks to all those who are featured in these videos. Thanks also to the publishers of these videos on YouTube.
Click the Kwanzaa tab for more pancocojams posts about this African American originated holiday.
****
PANCOCOJAMS EDITOR'S NOTE
Many of these videos of Kwanzaa celebrations may have occurred on the evening of the sixth day of Kwanzaa. Here's a write up about that day"
from http://www.holidays.net/kwanzaa/7days.htm
"Kuumba
On the sixth day the black candle is lit, then the farthest left red, the farthest right green, the next red, the next green and then the final red candle. This represents the 6th principle of Kwanzaa – Kuumba (koo-OOM-bah): Creativity.
The sixth day, which occurs on New Years Eve, is a special day. This is the day of the Kwanzaa Karamu or Kwanzaa Feast. In the spirit of celebration many families invite their friends and family to join in the festivities.
Create a party atmosphere with additional Kwanzaa decorations. Dress up in traditional or traditional inspired clothing. Play African or African American music. Cook your favorite foods and special holiday dishes. Invite your guests to contribute to the feast by bringing along their favorite dishes. The children and/or the Adults can perform plays, read uplifting passages, poems or stories. Maybe one of the adults will be a story teller for the day. Remember the principle of the day is Kuumba (creativity). So be creative!!
On this special day we remember our ancestors when the Unity cup is shared. After everyone has taken a drink the candles are extinguished.
But before the Karamu is over, the eldest member of those present will read the Tamshi La Tutaonana (TAM-shi la Tu-ta-u-NA-na). The Tamshi La Tutaonana was written by Dr. Karenga, the creator of Kwanzaa, as a farewell statement to the feast and the year.
Everyone stands as the elder reads:
Strive for discipline, dedication, and achievement in all you do. Dare struggle and sacrifice and gain the strength that comes from this. Build where you are and dare leave a legacy that will last as long as the sun shines and the water flows. Practice daily Umoja, Kujichagulia, Ujima, Ujamaa, Nia, Kuumba, and Imani. And may the wisdom of the ancestors always walk with us. May the year’s end meet us laughing, and stronger. May our children honor us by following our example in love and struggle. And at the end of next year, may we sit together again, in larger numbers, with greater achievement and closer to liberation and a higher level of life.
Then the elder leads the guests in the Harambee (ha-RAM-bee) salute. Each person raises their right fist about as high as their shoulder, then pulls down forcefully until the elbow is next to next to their torso, saying “Harambee!” This is done seven times in unison.
This concludes the Karamu celebration."
-snip-
It should be noted that this write up serves as one idea about how these programs can occur.
Some community Kwanzaa gatherings with dancing, drumming, food, and speakers have been held on other nights of Kwanzaa instead of or in addition to the sixth night of Kwanzaa (Kuumba). These community Kwanzaa celebrations are usually open to the public, but largely attended by people who have otherwise participated throughout the year in the sponsoring organization's/organizations' services/activities.
Depending on the sponsoring organization/s, either a few attendees or most of the attendees don't wear African clothing (usually semi-traditional West African fashions.)
Lighting the kinara candle and explaining that day's Kwanzaa principle are always parts of the Kwanzaa events that I've attended. However, gifts are usually not given at these events. Also, I've never heard anyone read the words that are given above in blockquotes. Furthermore, none of the Kwanzaa community events and small gatherings that I've attended over the years included drinking from the unity cup, apart from the first Kwanzaa gathering that I remember in Newark, New Jersey in 1967.
Smaller Kwanzaa parties are also held by family and friends on any night of Kwanzaa. These parties usually center around food and African dancing and drumming. People may or may not wear West African clothing. These parties may showcase a few people performing African dancing and drumming.
In the segment of the video given below as Example #6 (beginning at 5:50) the narrator mentions that small handmade gifts could be given every day of Kwanzaa, and a larger gift given on the last day of Kwanzaa. That is how I remember the Kwanzaa celebrations that I attended in 1967 in Newark, New Jersey, with the larger gift given during the evening of the 6th day of Kwanzaa, at the karamu. However, my experience since then is that gifts are usually not given out at community Kwanzaa events.
The seventh day of Kwanzaa (New Years Day) might have been traditionally considered a day of rest (from communal activities). However, some community organizations might hold an event on that day (instead of on other Kwanzaa days).
****
SHOWCASE EXAMPLES
Example #1: History of Kwanzaa
quartnivell escola, Published on Apr 28, 2008
Kwanzaa
****
Example #2: Sesame Street: Kwanzaa
Sesame Street, Published on Dec 17, 2008
In this clip, a family celebrates Kwanzaa.
Sesame Street is a production of Sesame Workshop, a nonprofit educational organization which also produces Pinky Dinky Doo, The Electric Company, and other programs for children around the world.
****
Example #3: CEA Children @ Kwanzaa 2011 SAFE Passage African Dance
CEApittsburghTV, Published on Jan 6, 2012
Community Empowerment Association's Kwanzaa Celebration 2011. Pittsburgh, PA. December 30, 2011
****
Example #4: ACHA Kwanzaa Show featuring The Africentric School Drumming and Dance Ensemble
African-Canadian Heritage, Published on Dec 9, 2013
The Africentric School Drumming and Dance Ensemble performance at the African Canadian Heritage Association annual Kwanzaa Show on Dec 7th at the Warden Wood Community Centre
****
Example #5: Kwanzaa Karamu 2012 - Kuumba performance
Mayaneye, Published on Jan 1, 2013
Taaluma Drum & Dance Company (Culture4mykids) performing for the family during the karamu.
****
Example #6: CELEBRATION episode Kwanzaa segment
craftinamerica.org, Published on Dec 11, 2015
www.craftinamerica.org. CELEBRATION episode Kwanzaa segment. PBS premiere: December 11, 2015...
-snip-
Here's information about the word "ase'" [pronounced "AH-shay") that was spoken near the end of this video:
From https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ase_(Yoruba)
"Ase (or às̩e̩ or ashe [1]) is a West African philosophical concept through which the Yoruba of Nigeria conceive the power to make things happen and produce change. It is given by Olodumare to everything — gods, ancestors, spirits, humans, animals, plants, rocks, rivers, and voiced words such as songs, prayers, praises, curses, or even everyday conversation. Existence, according to Yoruba thought, is dependent upon it.[2]"
**
From http://www.aseire.com/meaning.php
"Ase is generally defined as "the power to make things happen" and also refers to the spiritual life force that flows through things, much like the Chinese concept of chi. Ase can also be used to express agreement -- saying "Ase!" can be like saying "Right on!" Ase is also a way of saying, "so let it be" and is used by Orisa worshippers in the way "amen" would be used by Christians following a prayer."
****
Example #7: 30th Annual Kwanzaafest | Durham, NC | OMNI Documentaries
OMNI Documentaries O.I.C. Media, Published on Jan 3, 2016
Habari Gani? KWANZAA! This year, 2016 was both the 30th annual Kwanzaafest & the 79th birthday of beloved African American Dance Ensemble (AADE) Founder, Baba Chuck Davis! And Bull City, Durham gave a great celebration for all to see! Performances were given by singer Versatyle, praise dancer Min. Fred Jones & theatrical drama from Lynnette Barber. (Go to Instagram account OMNI76 to SEE photos & video clips from the event!) But the true highlight were the combined performances of AADE & its sister dance company from Richmond, Virginia EZIBU MUNTU African Dance & Cultural Foundation! In witnessing the performance, you'll understand why Durham, NC starts off every year in being blessed by this annual extravaganza!
-snip-
The man wearing the gold agbada (robe) is Baba* Chuck Davis ((January 1, 1937 – May 14, 2017),
Baba Chuck Davis "was an American dancer and choreographer whose work focused on traditional African dance in America. He was the founder of DanceAfrica, the Chuck Davis Dance Company and the African American Dance Ensemble." https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chuck_Davis_(dancer)
Baba Chuck Davis helped popularize the call & response attention chant "ago" - "ame".
*"Baba" here is an honorific title of respect for a male elder.
****
Example #8: 2016 Kwanzaa Celebration
TheTriangleTribune, Published on Jan 5, 2016
People came out to celebrate Kwanzaa at the Durham Armory for the annual Kwanzaa Fest presented by Chuck Davis and his African Dance Ensemble.
****
Thanks for visiting pancocojams.
Visitor comments are welcome.
Wednesday, June 18, 2014
Juneteenth Commemorations & Celebrations (information & videos)
Edited by Azizi Powell
This post provides information about the African American celebration of Juneteenth and provides examples of Juneteenth celebrations.
I'm particularly interested in the way that various Juneteenth celebrations throughout the United States include elements of traditional West African culture such as African dancing, drumming and (in one video African singing) and wearing traditional West African outfits made of kente cloth or other fabrics. I've noted examples of these that are found in some of the videos below, and included an editorial comment as an Addendum to this post.
The content of this post is provided for historical, cultural, entertainment, and aesthetic purposes.
All copyrights remain with their owners.
Thanks to all those who contributed to African American freedom. Thanks also to all those who are quoted in this post and thanks to all those who are featured in the videos. In addition, thanks to the publishers of these YouTube sound files and videos.
****
INFORMATION ABOUT JUNETEENTH
From
http://www.juneteenth.com/history.htm
"Juneteenth is the oldest known celebration commemorating the ending of slavery in the United States. Dating back to 1865, it was on June 19th that the Union soldiers, led by Major General Gordon Granger, landed at Galveston, Texas with news that the war had ended and that the enslaved were now free. Note that this was two and a half years after President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation - which had become official January 1, 1863. The Emancipation Proclamation had little impact on the Texans due to the minimal number of Union troops to enforce the new Executive Order. However, with the surrender of General Lee in April of 1865, and the arrival of General Granger’s regiment, the forces were finally strong enough to influence and overcome the resistance.
Later attempts to explain this two and a half year delay in the receipt of this important news have yielded several versions that have been handed down through the years. Often told is the story of a messenger who was murdered on his way to Texas with the news of freedom. Another, is that the news was deliberately withheld by the enslavers to maintain the labor force on the plantations. And still another, is that federal troops actually waited for the slave owners to reap the benefits of one last cotton harvest before going to Texas to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation. All of which, or neither of these version could be true. Certainly, for some, President Lincoln's authority over the rebellious states was in question. For whatever the reasons, conditions in Texas remained status quo well beyond what was statutory.
General Order Number 3
One of General Granger’s first orders of business was to read to the people of Texas, General Order Number 3 which began most significantly with:
"The people of Texas are informed that in accordance with a Proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free. This involves an absolute equality of rights and rights of property between former masters and slaves, and the connection heretofore existing between them becomes that between employer and free laborer."
The reactions to this profound news ranged from pure shock to immediate jubilation. While many lingered to learn of this new employer to employee relationship, many left before these offers were completely off the lips of their former 'masters' - attesting to the varying conditions on the plantations and the realization of freedom. Even with nowhere to go, many felt that leaving the plantation would be their first grasp of freedom. North was a logical destination and for many it represented true freedom, while the desire to reach family members in neighboring states drove the some into Louisiana, Arkansas and Oklahoma. Settling into these new areas as free men and women brought on new realities and the challenges of establishing a heretofore non-existent status for black people in America. Recounting the memories of that great day in June of 1865 and its festivities would serve as motivation as well as a release from the growing pressures encountered in their new territory. The celebration of June 19th was coined "Juneteenth" and grew with more participation from descendants. The Juneteenth celebration was a time for reassuring each other, for praying and for gathering remaining family members. Juneteenth continued to be highly revered in Texas decades later, with many former slaves and descendants making an annual pilgrimage back to Galveston on this date."...
-snip-
Juneteenth has developed into a day to celebrate African American history and African American heritage, including African heritage - through parades, through formal cultural programs, and through community gatherings that include music, dance, and food.
However, it's important to note that Juneteenth isn't known or traditionally celebrated by a number of African Americans outside of the state of Texas. I believe that's particularly true for African Americans in the Eastern region of the United States who often weren't aware of Juneteenth until relatively recently, or may still not be aware of the historical significance of that day. For example, I was born and raised in New Jersey and have lived in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania since the late 1960s. It wasn't until the late 1990s or early 2000s that I learned about Juneteenth when a now defunct Black "urban" radio station in Pittsburgh sponsored the first Juneteenth celebration event in that city. As I recall, in keeping with its sponsor, that event mostly showcased local R&B/Hip-Hop music groups. While some Pittsburgh community organizations may still sporadically hold cultural programs honoring Juneteenth on a Saturday or Sunday near that date, I don't believe that those celebrations are that big or that well known. That said, notice that the Eastern city of Buffalo, New York celebrated its 38th annual Juneteenth parade in 2013 as documented in a video found below.
****
SHOWCASE VIDEOS ABOUT THE MEANING OF JUNETEENTH
Example #1: "The Roots of Juneteenth" - Galveston, TX
visitgalvestonisland, June 1, 2012
Every year visitors to Galveston, Texas "come home where it all began" to celebrate one of the largest Juneteenth celebrations in the country! Did you know Juneteenth-a holiday now celebrated by more than 40 states-began in Galveston, Texas? Galveston holds the distinction of being the place in the United States where the last slaves were freed. Find out more in this short video and don't forget to visit http://www.galveston.com/juneteenth/
-snip-
Here's an excerpt from that website:
"Today Juneteenth commemorates African American freedom and emphasizes education and achievement. It is a day, a week, and in some areas a month marked with celebrations, guest speakers, picnics and family gatherings. It is a time for reflection and rejoicing. It is a time for assessment, self-improvement and for planning the future. Its growing popularity signifies a level of maturity and dignity in America long over due. In cities across the country, people of all races, nationalities and religions are joining hands to truthfully acknowledge a period in our history that shaped and continues to influence our society today. Sensitized to the conditions and experiences of others, only then can we make significant and lasting improvements in our society. - compliments of Juneteenth.com"
****
Example #2: Juneteenth - A Celebration of Freedom (Trailer) [Texas]
FASTCUTFILMS-TEXAS,uploaded on June 4, 2009
****
FEATURED VIDEOS OF JUNETEENTH CELEBRATIONS
These examples are presented in chronological order based on their posting date on YouTube, with the oldest examples given first. The state from which the video comes is given in brackets.
Example #1: Juneteenth Parade 2013, 38th Annual Parade, Buffalo NY [New York]
Wil Images, Published June 19, 2013 [parade held on June 15, 2013
-snip-
Notice that among the very wide range of educational, recreational, cultural, health & community services, and religious organizations/institutions that participated in this event, the parade also included steppers from a number of historically Black college & university fraternities & sororities. The inclusion of BGLO (Black Greek Lettered Organizations) documents the increased presence of undergraduate college & university Black Greek organization outside of their campuses as part of mainstream Black American culture. One result of that increased presence is the number of non-college/university Black step teams that have been created in Black American and other American communities since the 1980s. Click the Black fraternity and sorority steppin tag below to find pancocojams post on stepping.
****
Example #2: Juneteenth Parade 2013 [Texas]
KUT Austin, Published on June 16, 1013
Big crowds turn out for the annual Juneteenth parade
-snip-
A highly anticipated and central facet of this parade is when paraders throw candy or hand candy to those watching the parade, especially children. The act of throwing desired objects to parade onlookers is also a feature of Louisiana Mardi Gras parades. I also recall that firemen threw candy to children during their annual parade when I was a child in Atlantic City, New Jersey in the 1950s.
****
Example #3: Boston's Juneteenth Celebration 2013 - Program Highlights [Massachusetts]
Uphams Corner News, June 29, 2013
Boston’s Juneteenth celebration at the Museum of African American Artists (6/19/2013) Keynote Speaker Professor Charles Ogletree, Harvard University, drumming and singing groups including Paige Academy and The Butterfly Project.
-snip-
Notice the kente cloth that serves as a backdrop to the speakers’ podium, as well as the kente cloth outfit that is worn by the young girl at 2:5, and various patterns & colors of kente cloth stoles that are shown throughout this video, including the one which is worn by the vocalist who leads the attendees in singing "Lift Every Voice And Sing", which is known as the African American National Anthem [around 10:02]. Also, notice the inclusion of other examples of traditional West African clothing as well as West African dancing & drumming in this celebration.
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Example #4: Neighborhood Block Association's 2013 Richmond California Juneteenth Parade & Celebration [California]
Djijaga, July 2, 2013
-snip-
Notice the young people wearing kente cloth stoles as a commemoration of their African heritage [2:16-2:29]
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Example #5: JuneTeenth Celebration with Dance [Ohio]
Socially Good TV, Published June 14, 2014
Watch highlights and learn about the Djapo Cultural Arts Institute (Djapo.com) and the Juneteenth Conference and Concert Weekend Celebration from Talise Cambell, Cleveland Ohio.
-snip-
I'm not a dancer, but I've attended a considerably large number of African dance performances in the United States. This highlight trailer & the narration makes me wish that I could see a live performance of this dance group or groups. I wonder if some of the performers or the instructors are African or if the African American instructors/dancers traveled to an African country/countries to learn these dances. Kudus to these dancers for their adherence to traditional West African dance techniques/costumes and the high quality of their performances! And also kudus to the drummers and other musicians!
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ADDENDUM & RELATED LINKS
I believe that the inclusion of African drumming, African dancing, wearing traditional West African or West African inspired outfits and other elements of African culture into Juneteenth celebrations reflects the achievement of a Black cultural nationalist goal from that African American movement that flowered in the late 1960s/early 1970s. That goal was that our African heritage would be accepted by more African Americans as a legitimate and admired part of our past culture and our present day culture.
Three other examples of the normalization of traditional African culture as an expression of African American culture are the celebration of Kwanzaa, the African American custom of wearing kente cloth stoles during graduation ceremonies, and the celebration of African Day in churches during which church members are encouraged to wear African or African inspired outfits. Click http://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2012/12/teddy-pendergrass-happy-kwanzaa-video.html for a pancocojams post on Kwanzaa. Also click "http://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2014/02/wearing-kente-cloth-stoles-during.html and http://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2014/02/african-day-worship-services-in-african.html for two of four posts in a pancocojams series about African Americans wearing kente cloth.
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Visitor comments are welcome.
This post provides information about the African American celebration of Juneteenth and provides examples of Juneteenth celebrations.
I'm particularly interested in the way that various Juneteenth celebrations throughout the United States include elements of traditional West African culture such as African dancing, drumming and (in one video African singing) and wearing traditional West African outfits made of kente cloth or other fabrics. I've noted examples of these that are found in some of the videos below, and included an editorial comment as an Addendum to this post.
The content of this post is provided for historical, cultural, entertainment, and aesthetic purposes.
All copyrights remain with their owners.
Thanks to all those who contributed to African American freedom. Thanks also to all those who are quoted in this post and thanks to all those who are featured in the videos. In addition, thanks to the publishers of these YouTube sound files and videos.
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INFORMATION ABOUT JUNETEENTH
From
http://www.juneteenth.com/history.htm
"Juneteenth is the oldest known celebration commemorating the ending of slavery in the United States. Dating back to 1865, it was on June 19th that the Union soldiers, led by Major General Gordon Granger, landed at Galveston, Texas with news that the war had ended and that the enslaved were now free. Note that this was two and a half years after President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation - which had become official January 1, 1863. The Emancipation Proclamation had little impact on the Texans due to the minimal number of Union troops to enforce the new Executive Order. However, with the surrender of General Lee in April of 1865, and the arrival of General Granger’s regiment, the forces were finally strong enough to influence and overcome the resistance.
Later attempts to explain this two and a half year delay in the receipt of this important news have yielded several versions that have been handed down through the years. Often told is the story of a messenger who was murdered on his way to Texas with the news of freedom. Another, is that the news was deliberately withheld by the enslavers to maintain the labor force on the plantations. And still another, is that federal troops actually waited for the slave owners to reap the benefits of one last cotton harvest before going to Texas to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation. All of which, or neither of these version could be true. Certainly, for some, President Lincoln's authority over the rebellious states was in question. For whatever the reasons, conditions in Texas remained status quo well beyond what was statutory.
General Order Number 3
One of General Granger’s first orders of business was to read to the people of Texas, General Order Number 3 which began most significantly with:
"The people of Texas are informed that in accordance with a Proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free. This involves an absolute equality of rights and rights of property between former masters and slaves, and the connection heretofore existing between them becomes that between employer and free laborer."
The reactions to this profound news ranged from pure shock to immediate jubilation. While many lingered to learn of this new employer to employee relationship, many left before these offers were completely off the lips of their former 'masters' - attesting to the varying conditions on the plantations and the realization of freedom. Even with nowhere to go, many felt that leaving the plantation would be their first grasp of freedom. North was a logical destination and for many it represented true freedom, while the desire to reach family members in neighboring states drove the some into Louisiana, Arkansas and Oklahoma. Settling into these new areas as free men and women brought on new realities and the challenges of establishing a heretofore non-existent status for black people in America. Recounting the memories of that great day in June of 1865 and its festivities would serve as motivation as well as a release from the growing pressures encountered in their new territory. The celebration of June 19th was coined "Juneteenth" and grew with more participation from descendants. The Juneteenth celebration was a time for reassuring each other, for praying and for gathering remaining family members. Juneteenth continued to be highly revered in Texas decades later, with many former slaves and descendants making an annual pilgrimage back to Galveston on this date."...
-snip-
Juneteenth has developed into a day to celebrate African American history and African American heritage, including African heritage - through parades, through formal cultural programs, and through community gatherings that include music, dance, and food.
However, it's important to note that Juneteenth isn't known or traditionally celebrated by a number of African Americans outside of the state of Texas. I believe that's particularly true for African Americans in the Eastern region of the United States who often weren't aware of Juneteenth until relatively recently, or may still not be aware of the historical significance of that day. For example, I was born and raised in New Jersey and have lived in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania since the late 1960s. It wasn't until the late 1990s or early 2000s that I learned about Juneteenth when a now defunct Black "urban" radio station in Pittsburgh sponsored the first Juneteenth celebration event in that city. As I recall, in keeping with its sponsor, that event mostly showcased local R&B/Hip-Hop music groups. While some Pittsburgh community organizations may still sporadically hold cultural programs honoring Juneteenth on a Saturday or Sunday near that date, I don't believe that those celebrations are that big or that well known. That said, notice that the Eastern city of Buffalo, New York celebrated its 38th annual Juneteenth parade in 2013 as documented in a video found below.
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SHOWCASE VIDEOS ABOUT THE MEANING OF JUNETEENTH
Example #1: "The Roots of Juneteenth" - Galveston, TX
visitgalvestonisland, June 1, 2012
Every year visitors to Galveston, Texas "come home where it all began" to celebrate one of the largest Juneteenth celebrations in the country! Did you know Juneteenth-a holiday now celebrated by more than 40 states-began in Galveston, Texas? Galveston holds the distinction of being the place in the United States where the last slaves were freed. Find out more in this short video and don't forget to visit http://www.galveston.com/juneteenth/
-snip-
Here's an excerpt from that website:
"Today Juneteenth commemorates African American freedom and emphasizes education and achievement. It is a day, a week, and in some areas a month marked with celebrations, guest speakers, picnics and family gatherings. It is a time for reflection and rejoicing. It is a time for assessment, self-improvement and for planning the future. Its growing popularity signifies a level of maturity and dignity in America long over due. In cities across the country, people of all races, nationalities and religions are joining hands to truthfully acknowledge a period in our history that shaped and continues to influence our society today. Sensitized to the conditions and experiences of others, only then can we make significant and lasting improvements in our society. - compliments of Juneteenth.com"
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Example #2: Juneteenth - A Celebration of Freedom (Trailer) [Texas]
FASTCUTFILMS-TEXAS,uploaded on June 4, 2009
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FEATURED VIDEOS OF JUNETEENTH CELEBRATIONS
These examples are presented in chronological order based on their posting date on YouTube, with the oldest examples given first. The state from which the video comes is given in brackets.
Example #1: Juneteenth Parade 2013, 38th Annual Parade, Buffalo NY [New York]
Wil Images, Published June 19, 2013 [parade held on June 15, 2013
-snip-
Notice that among the very wide range of educational, recreational, cultural, health & community services, and religious organizations/institutions that participated in this event, the parade also included steppers from a number of historically Black college & university fraternities & sororities. The inclusion of BGLO (Black Greek Lettered Organizations) documents the increased presence of undergraduate college & university Black Greek organization outside of their campuses as part of mainstream Black American culture. One result of that increased presence is the number of non-college/university Black step teams that have been created in Black American and other American communities since the 1980s. Click the Black fraternity and sorority steppin tag below to find pancocojams post on stepping.
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Example #2: Juneteenth Parade 2013 [Texas]
KUT Austin, Published on June 16, 1013
Big crowds turn out for the annual Juneteenth parade
-snip-
A highly anticipated and central facet of this parade is when paraders throw candy or hand candy to those watching the parade, especially children. The act of throwing desired objects to parade onlookers is also a feature of Louisiana Mardi Gras parades. I also recall that firemen threw candy to children during their annual parade when I was a child in Atlantic City, New Jersey in the 1950s.
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Example #3: Boston's Juneteenth Celebration 2013 - Program Highlights [Massachusetts]
Uphams Corner News, June 29, 2013
Boston’s Juneteenth celebration at the Museum of African American Artists (6/19/2013) Keynote Speaker Professor Charles Ogletree, Harvard University, drumming and singing groups including Paige Academy and The Butterfly Project.
-snip-
Notice the kente cloth that serves as a backdrop to the speakers’ podium, as well as the kente cloth outfit that is worn by the young girl at 2:5, and various patterns & colors of kente cloth stoles that are shown throughout this video, including the one which is worn by the vocalist who leads the attendees in singing "Lift Every Voice And Sing", which is known as the African American National Anthem [around 10:02]. Also, notice the inclusion of other examples of traditional West African clothing as well as West African dancing & drumming in this celebration.
****
Example #4: Neighborhood Block Association's 2013 Richmond California Juneteenth Parade & Celebration [California]
Djijaga, July 2, 2013
-snip-
Notice the young people wearing kente cloth stoles as a commemoration of their African heritage [2:16-2:29]
****
Example #5: JuneTeenth Celebration with Dance [Ohio]
Socially Good TV, Published June 14, 2014
Watch highlights and learn about the Djapo Cultural Arts Institute (Djapo.com) and the Juneteenth Conference and Concert Weekend Celebration from Talise Cambell, Cleveland Ohio.
-snip-
I'm not a dancer, but I've attended a considerably large number of African dance performances in the United States. This highlight trailer & the narration makes me wish that I could see a live performance of this dance group or groups. I wonder if some of the performers or the instructors are African or if the African American instructors/dancers traveled to an African country/countries to learn these dances. Kudus to these dancers for their adherence to traditional West African dance techniques/costumes and the high quality of their performances! And also kudus to the drummers and other musicians!
****
ADDENDUM & RELATED LINKS
I believe that the inclusion of African drumming, African dancing, wearing traditional West African or West African inspired outfits and other elements of African culture into Juneteenth celebrations reflects the achievement of a Black cultural nationalist goal from that African American movement that flowered in the late 1960s/early 1970s. That goal was that our African heritage would be accepted by more African Americans as a legitimate and admired part of our past culture and our present day culture.
Three other examples of the normalization of traditional African culture as an expression of African American culture are the celebration of Kwanzaa, the African American custom of wearing kente cloth stoles during graduation ceremonies, and the celebration of African Day in churches during which church members are encouraged to wear African or African inspired outfits. Click http://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2012/12/teddy-pendergrass-happy-kwanzaa-video.html for a pancocojams post on Kwanzaa. Also click "http://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2014/02/wearing-kente-cloth-stoles-during.html and http://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2014/02/african-day-worship-services-in-african.html for two of four posts in a pancocojams series about African Americans wearing kente cloth.
****
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Visitor comments are welcome.
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