Photo: Suzanne Sausville/ WBZ NewsRadio
BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — The 14th annual African Festival of Boston returned at the Commons on Saturday, Aug. 17.
The annual celebration of African art and culture started in 2010 and is also known as “The biggest African Festival of New England.”
Every year, the event features the sight and sound of the diverse, multi-culture aspect of the continent, which aims to celebrate and amplify marginalized voices.
“I think it’s amazing to see people here that love our culture,” Neby, who was setting up tents at the event, told WBZ NewsRadio. He added that he is from Guineas in West Africa.
There are 54 countries in Africa. Jealaika Shadari, the festival organizer, said many countries are represented here, such as “Nigeria, Ghana, Congo, Liberia” just to name a few. “I love our music, our food, how close we are, and the different tribes,” she continued. “Everything we have is just amazing.”
Photo: Suzanne Sausville/ WBZ NewsRadio
Photo: Suzanne Sausville/ WBZ NewsRadio
There were nearly 100 vendors selling traditional, garments, jewelry, instruments, and, of course, food.
John was there with his wife Catherine, who is from Kenya, and said he loves the supportive community that embodies the culture. When one person’s down, the whole village just comes together, supports them,” he said. “They don’t have much, but they all donate money to each other whenever someone is in need.”
WBZ NewsRadio's Suzanne Sausville (@WBZSausville) reports.
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