Where cultural differences have sometimes been considered a source of shame or something to be suppressed, University of Mary Washington students are embracing the “Colors of Africa” in celebration of their heritage.
Hosted by the African Student Union (ASU) and the James Farmer Multicultural Center, Colors of Africa is as an annual UMW event that celebrates African culture and heritage.
“Tonight, we come together as one and share what we can achieve through the timeless beauty that is Africa,” said members of ASU’s executive board.
Colors of Africa “is one of the biggest cultural events on campus; it’s able to show the power within the diversity of the student population,” said Cameron Washington, a former UMW student who took part in the fashion show.
Students from African countries such as Ethiopia and Ghana came together to showcase their traditional clothing and dances.
“Colors of Africa means the whole world to me, because this is the time I get to participate in my culture” said Aloysious Kabonge, who served as one of the event’s emcees.
Across the UMW campus, there were performances from various student groups such as Voices of Praise and afro gems as well as Les Fiyettes et Fils D’Afrique, a Black dance group from Virginia Commonwealth University.
A dance group takes part in Colors of Africa at the University of Mary Washington this weekend. (Photos courtesy of Erin Landfair)
The multicultural experience provided through Colors of Africa creates a platform for the intersection of diverse backgrounds. A showcase of traditional African culture also incorporated a celebration of Caribbean heritage through a carnival procession featuring homemade costumes.
“We kind of blend our cultures together and it’s very empowering. And it makes me feel back at home,” Kabonge said.
The students and their advisors are in charge of hosting the event and bringing it to fruition every year, said Washington. Despite underlying racial tension throughout the country, current events did not dampen the mood. The celebration was loud, with faculty, staff and students coming together to watch the show.
The significance of Colors of Africa continues to increase. The event highlights not just what it means to be African, but also the importance of African influences within society.
Whether sonically or through clothing, the event allows people to get a closer look.
There are a multitude of events happening in celebration of Black heritage at UMW and the Fredericksburg community throughout the month of February. See our list.
