About this Event
Vermont First African Landing Day
Come join us for this memorable Commemoration - The 5th Annual !
This free exciting gathering will take place on Saturday, August 26, 2023 at Intervale Center, 180 Intervale Road and the Richard Kemp Center, 372 N. Winooski Avenue, Burlington, VT. There will be ethnic food, music, dancing, speakers, exhibits, a youth “Home Base” and a 50 Year tribute to Hip Hop! The legendary Bobby Hackney will be on the main stage and the Keynote Speaker will be our own Dr. Wanda Heading Grant. The Richard Kemp Center will host the Vermont African American History Wall, local African American cultural and art exhibits and the 1619 Traveling Exhibit from Hampton, VA. Activities go from 11:00 till 6:00 PM.
The theme "Through The Fire" of the 5th Annual embodies the resilience and strength of American Descendants of Slavery. For over 15 generations Black folks in the United States have consistently triumphed over seemingly insurmountable oppression. "Through the Fire" symbolizes the remarkable ability of Black folks to take decisive action and access our untapped spirit, ingenuity, and creativity in the face of adversity. Throughout history, this journey has deepened our faith, instilled unwavering optimism and hope, and propelled us to unimaginable levels of excellence.
Immerse yourself in a day filled with cultural performances, captivating storytelling, and engaging activities that honor the African roots deeply embedded in the history of Vermont and this Nation. Discover the vibrant traditions, music, and dance that have shaped this nation and our local community. From 11:00 AM till 6:00 PM we'll embark on a journey of unity and understanding, commemorating the contributions of African culture to the diverse tapestry of Vermont and this Nation. Bring your friends and family along for an unforgettable experience that highlights the spirit of togetherness.
Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to connect with our shared heritage and commemorate First African Landing in Vermont. Join us at Vermont First African Landing Day and be part of a joyous commemoration that brings people together. We can't wait to see you there!
More on Vermont First African Landing Day
https://firstafricanlandingvt.org/
About Vermont First African Landing Day
Inspired by the 400 Year African American History Commission and the 1619 Project, the purpose of this day is to recognize and highlight the resilience and contributions of African-Americans since 1619; to acknowledge the impact that slavery and laws that enforced racial discrimination had [have] on the United States; and to educate the public about the arrival of Africans in the United States and the contributions of African-Americans to the United States.
On August 24, 2019 Governor Philip B. Scott proclaimed the 4th Saturday of August Vermont First African Landing Day proclaiming that “All in the State of Vermont are encouraged to learn about the Commemoration of the First African Landing Day to expand understanding and appreciation of the significance of the arrival of Africans in the United States and the contributions of African Americans in the United States. The 4th Saturday of August shall be henceforth recognized and Commemorated as First African Landing Day in Vermont.”
About the 400 Years African American History Commission:
The 400 Years of African American History Commission is a federally appointed committee, operating independently as established by the Secretary of the Department of the Interior and administered by the National Park Service. The 400 Years of African-American History Commission Act, signed into law January 8, 2018, established this 15-member commission to coordinate the 400th anniversary of the arrival of the first enslaved Africans in the English colonies on August 20, 1619, when 20 enslaved Africans were brought to Point Comfort in the English colony of Virginia (now part of Fort Monroe National Monument).
The 400 Years of African-American History Commission (the “Commission”) is developing and facilitate activities throughout the United States to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the arrival of Africans in the English colonies at Point Comfort, Virginia, in 1619, recognizing and highlighting the resilience and contributions of African Americans from that seminal moment forward, while simultaneously acknowledging the painful impact of slavery, racial discrimination, and racism on our Nation.
About the 1619 Project:
The 1619 Project is an ongoing initiative from The New York Times Magazine that began in August 2019, the 400th anniversary of the beginning of American slavery. It aims to reframe the country’s history by placing the consequences of slavery and the contributions of black Americans at the very center of our national narrative.
1619 and American History | The 1619 Project Book
About the Vermont Racial Justice Alliance:
Through Black leadership the Vermont Racial Justice Alliance addresses the root causes and impact of systemic racism with a data-driven approach that includes solutions ranging from platforms and initiatives; outreach and education; community engagement and support; and, cultural empowerment programming.
The Vermont Racial Justice Alliance’s work spans a broad range of activities to ensure the accomplishment of the mission: To secure sustainable power, ensure agency, and provide security for American Descendants of Slavery, while embracing our history and preserving their culture.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Intervale Center, 180 Intervale Road, Burlington, United States
USD 0.00
