FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 8, 2021
Media Contact: Angel Waldron, 301-446-3311
M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County Announces
African Historical and Cultural Events
Riverdale, MD – The Department of Parks and Recreation in Prince George’s County, part of the Maryland-National Capital Parks and Planning Commission, is proud to present several upcoming events about African History and Culture. Happening September 10-12, the community will have access to a variety of educational and entertaining programs offered virtually and in person. These include:
Friday, Sep 10
6:00 pm Echoes of the Enslaved: The Pursuit of Liberty Panel Discussion - Participate with us online or in-person as we partner with The Slave Dwelling Project to engage in timely conversations about the legacies of slavery, the endless pursuit of civil rights, and the landscapes that are perpetually changing around us.
7:30 pm Echoes of the Enslaved: In-Person Conversation Circles and Optional Overnight Campout Experience - After the panel discussion, we will gather around campfires and discuss the lasting legacies of slavery on this nation. Then you are invited to bring your outdoor gear and spend the night under the same sky where many ancestors once slept.
7:30 pm Celebrate Africa: Music by Micheline Ewang - Cameroonian born Micheline Ewang and her band presents her fusion of African roots, jazz, gospel and acoustic soul music.
Saturday, Sep 11
10:30 am Echoes of the Enslaved: Performance by Washington Revels Jubilee Voices - Saturday morning will feature an in-person performance by the Washington Revels Jubilee Voices ensemble to celebrate the enslaved community of Marietta. We will also commemorate the people who were lost 20 years ago during the terrorist attacks that struck the Twin Towers, the Pentagon, and on Flight 93.
1:00 pm Echoes of the Enslaved: Public Archaeology - Saturday afternoon will highlight the historical discoveries at Marietta and will include an in-person public archaeology experience where participants will process real artifacts that were discovered in the areas where enslaved families once lived.
3:00 pm Celebrate Africa: Film: The Great Green Wall - Malian musician/activist Inna Modja journeys to Africa's Great Green Wall — a project to grow an 8,000km 'wall’ of trees stretching across the entire width of the continent to provide a future for millions of people.
6:00 pm Celebrate Africa: Musical Performance by Loide Jorge - Born in France with roots in Mozambique and Guinea-Bissau, Loide Jorge presents her hypnotic blend of Afro-luso rhythms, folk songs, jazz, and African-American Blues.
Sunday, Sep 12
11:00 am Celebrate Africa: Storytelling on the River (at Bladensburg Waterfront Park) - Enjoy folk tales and fables, drumming, and music from countries across the African continent while cruising on the Anacostia River.
4:00 pm Celebrate Africa: The Jolly Papa Show LIVE - Don’t miss this special edition of the Jolly Papa Show with hosts Eme and Michael as they spin music from across the continent of Africa and conduct in-person interviews with local African musical artists.
About the Department
The M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation delivers a national award-winning park system through progressive, innovative leadership and a commitment to the community and the environment in Prince George’s County. For more on the Department of Parks and Recreation, visit www.pgparks.com and stay connected on Facebook, Twitter, PhotoShelter, and Instagram. The Department of Parks and Recreation encourages and supports the participation of individuals with disabilities in all programs and services. Register at least a minimum of two weeks in advance of the program start date to request and receive a disability accommodation.
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