Kwanzaa

Kwanzaa is a rapist holiday and I'll not provide any services for any potential clients revolved a rapist holiday. Don't harass me nor beg me to promote a rapist holiday. I'll not. I'm not interested in discussing my reasons about not conducting any services related to Kwanzaa.

Ms. Afrika Abney gave away this dance outfit many years ago.

She appeared with the Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers for

Kwanzaa Celebration held at Plymouth. Photos credit by

Kelechukwu Onyenolachi

Imani Night Celebration, Kwanzaa 2010/2011

Information and Flyers posted widely on social media by Ms.

Afrika Abney from 2009 - 2015.

From 1970s - 2015, Ms. Afrika Abney celebrated Kwanzaa. She

stopped celebrating Kwanzaa because she learned that the creator

of the holiday, Dr. Karenga was a rapist and criminal.

Ms. Abney does not advocate nor support this type of African American

holiday that advocates sexual abuse towards women. She was disappointed to

learn about this history on her own in 2015 as supposed to told the truth about

the holiday.

Despite, learning about this, she had the opportunity to be apart of many

Kwanzaa events in the past.

7 Day Citywide Kwanzaa Calender of Events for the DMV. 2010/2011

UMOJA (UNITY) SUN. DEC. 26

• The Annual Candle-lighting, Children Presentations & Afrocenteric

Academic Challenge. Dinner Sale & Afrikan Marketplace sponsored by UBC

& LCPAN. 3:00pm until 6:00pm at Roots, 15 Kennedy St NW.

Call (202) 526-4039 or (202) 529·3635.

• Odwira Ancestral Akon Kwanzaa Celebration by THE TEMPLE OF

NYAME at 949 Bonifant St, Silver Spring, MD 2pm to 6pm. Call (202)678-3100

for info.

• African Heritage Dancers & Drummers Umoja Night Celebration.

7:00 to 8:30 P.M. Free to the Public. 1320 Good Hope Rd. S.E.

Info. 202-399-5252

KUJICHAGULIA (SELF- DETERMINATION) MON. DEC. 27

• Kwanzaa Candle-lighting Celebration & program by the

Ausar Auset Society and Ideal PCS .

The event will focus on health as a dynamic and transformative force

impacting the stability of the African family. Children activities, vending, and

food will be available. Location: 100 Peabody St. NW. (6:30pm-9:30pm).

Call 202-723-5566.

•Global Citizenship for African People Realized - An Evening of

Kujichagulia. The Government of the UNIA-ACL.

1320 Good Hope Rd. S.E., WDC. 6pm - 10pm.

This event is FREE. African Market Place and Dinner available for purchase

Call 1-866-496-8456 for Info.

UJIMA (COLLECTIVE WORK AND RESPONSIBILITY) TUES. DEC 28

• Kwanzaa Program & Candle-lighting Service by House of Ra,

Afi Soul and Friends. Hip-Hop, Go Go. Neo-Soul and Poetry. 7:15pm,

Bohemian Caverns, 2001 11th St., NW (11th & U Sts.), Wash., DC. Free

Admission. Call (202) 436-6466 or (202) 299-0800.

• Kwanzaa Candle-lighting Celebration & Program at St. Michael’s

Evangelical Lutheran Church. 700 Saint Michael’s Drive, Mitchellville, MD

at 7:30 pm. Call (301) 249-6222.

UJAMAA (COOPERATIVE ECONOMICS) WEDS. DEC. 29

• The Annual Ujamaa Kwanzaa Candle-lighting Celebration &

Program. Including the dramatic production: "Kwanzaa Yenu Iwe Na

Heri" (May Y’all’s Kwanzaa Be Filled With Happiness),

Ujamaa Dancers & Drummers and vegetarian food.

Ujamaa Shule at 8th & Q St. NW, Wash., DC at 7:00pm. Call (202) 232-2997.

NIA (PURPOSE) THURS. DEC. 30

• Candle-lighting and Kwanzaa Program Universal

Improvement through ReAfricanization and Nation

Building by the Universal Negro Improvement Association and

African Communities League, Woodson Banneker-Jackson Bey Division 330.

Guest speakers will include an African Priest of the Akan Tradition,

Dr. Mwangaza Bandele and Elements 4 Nature - producers of products

developed by Dr. George Washington Carver and Dr. Austin Curtis. Also

included will will be an African Market Place, Spoken Word by Evergreen

Productions, Pan African Feast and a Children’s Village from 6:00 P.M.

until 9:00 P.M. at the Tree of Life Community Public Charter School,

2315 18th Place, N.E. Washington, D.C. 20018. Free Admission.

For More information call (202) 398-2121or (202) 529-3635.

KUUMBA (CREATIVITY) FRI. DEC. 31

• 41st Annual Kwanzaa Children’s Party at Nation House,

770 Park Road NW, Wash., DC 1:00-3:00 pm. Sponsored by Kwanzaa

Children’s Party, Inc. and Temple of Nyame, for children age 3 -12.

Adult must accompany children. Featuring the Kuumba Arts Korner,

Baba Lasana, and dancing & drumming. Call (202) 363 5887,

(202) 390 3164 or (240) 832-7203.

• Community Resources, Inc. presents the premier of the

documentary film on the first African centered school in

Washington, DC: The New School for African American Thought.

The film is called Under the Radar: The story of the most important

DC educational institution that you probably did not know existed .

6:00 PM at Umoja House, 2015 Bunker Hill Rd. NE. Call (202) 526-4039.

• Karamu (Feast) sponsored by UBC. Candle-lighting Service, poetry,

music, dancing, lots of food and fun. Bring a wholesome natural food dish

to share. Umoja House, 2015 Bunker Hill Rd. NE. 8:00 pm until.

Call (202) 526-4039 or (240) 832-7203.

IMANI (FAITH) SAT. JAN. 1

• Annual Free the Land Annual Kwanzaa 3.1 - 5 mile

Fun Run/Walk/Bike. 12 noon, Lake Artemisia Park, Berwyn Rd. and

55th Ave, Greenbelt, MD. Call (202) 355-2562.

• Kwanzaa Imani Celebration and African Consciousness Award

Presentation.Cosponsored by UBC and ADACI. Performance by

Malcolm X Dancers & Drummers, presentation by noted spiritual leaders

and the presentation of this year’s African Consciousness Award:

Mama Sala Damali. At Plymouth Congregational Church, 5301 N

Capitol St NE, Washington D.C., 7:00pm. Call (202) 526-4039,

(202) 529-3635 or (240) 832-7203.

Djimo Kouyate

Commissioned Photography for Baba Djimo Kouyate Smithsonian Folklife Festival, 1997, Washington, DC Photograph by Ms. Afrika Abney "Djimo Kouyaté (August 16, 1946 - August 1, 2004). Djimo Kouyate was from the Malinké tribe, a sub-group of the Mandingo people. Born in Tambacounda, Senegal, he was from a distinguished family of griots who trace their ancestry back to the thirteenth century. A master kora player and a fine singer and dancer, Djimo also played a variety of other instruments including balafon (wooden xylophone), drums, and other string instruments. He worked with the Senegalese National Ballet as a singer and dancer since 1960, and was a founding member of the National Instrumental Ensemble of Senegal."

The AACL Tour presented by Esther Productions Inc. in partnership with The Black Student Fund and The Institute for African American Writing

The AACL Tour opened on March 16th and took place at Francis Gregory. The next AACL Tour is scheduled to take place on April 20, 2024. Please see details below: (Photo credit from Esther Productions, Inc's programs)- https://www.estherproductionsinc.com/aachildrensliterature Esther Productions Inc., in partnership with The Black Student Fund and The Institute for African American Writing presents two authors Ms. Joy Jones and Mr. E.Ethelbert Miller on April 20th. Info: aachildrenslit2023 @gmail.com . " Joy Jones has taught creative writing and public speaking to middle school students and coached poetry slam teams. Her children’s book Tambourine Moon (Simon & Schuster) was chosen in 2000 as a Kid’s Pick of the Lists by the American Booksellers Association, selected as one of the best books for children by the black caucus of the ALA, and seen on Fox TV’s hit show The Bernie Mac Show. She is also the author of Private Lessons:A Book of Meditations for Te...

Sky Breeze

Sky Breeze. Digital art created on canvas. September 17, 2024. Afrika Abney “Sky Breeze embodies the spirit of a serene and invigorating light blue hue, evoking the imagery of a pristine sky paired with the gentle caress of a soft wind.” “The influence of solid colors on the emotional resonance and overall atmosphere of abstract paintings, whether they are created through traditional methods or digital techniques, is a significant aspect of art appreciation and interpretation. Colors possess inherent psychological properties that can evoke a wide range of feelings and responses from viewers. For instance, warm colors like reds and oranges often convey energy and passion, while cooler tones such as blues and greens can instill a sense of calmness and tranquility. The strategic use of these solid colors can dramatically alter the viewer's perception and emotional engagement with the artwork. Furthermore, the impact of solid colors extends beyond mere aesthetics; it also influences th...

Authentic Ember Essence, digital art created on canvas

I possess a strong artistic inclination, characterized by a vivid imagination and a unique approach to expressing ideas. My creativity manifests in various forms, allowing me to explore and innovate in ways. This genuine passion for the arts is a form of self-expression. My personality is deeply rooted in artistic expression, showcasing a flair for creativity that is both original and authentic. I thrive on the ability to think outside the box, often finding inspiration in the world around me. This creative spirit fuels my professional projects. Being genuine is a core aspect of my character, as I strive to remain true to myself in all my endeavors. This authenticity enhances my artistic pursuits, allowing me to create work that reflects my true self. My commitment to creativity and originality ensures that my contributions are not only meaningful but also impactful. Authentic Ember Essence. Digital art created on canvas. August 10, 2024. Afrika Abney The title "Authentic Ember Es...

Esther Productions Inc., in partnership with The Black Student Fund and The Institute for African American Writing presents two authors Sharon Bell Mathis and Brian Gilmore

Esther Productions Inc., in partnership with The Black Student Fund and The Institute for African American Writing presents two authors Sharon Bell Mathis and Brian Gilmore on Mar 16, 2024 from 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM at 3660 Alabama Ave SE, Washington, DC 20020, USA . " Sharon Bell Mathis (born 1937) is an American librarian and author who has written books mainly for children and young adults. Mathis was born in Atlantic City, New Jersey. She started writing at an early age, and her love of reading was fostered by her parents. Her mother, a poet, encouraged her to write. In 1958, she earned a degree in Sociology from Morgan State College and, in 1975, went on to earn a master's in Library Science from the Catholic University of America. Mathis has written many books for children and young adults, and has received many accolades in her career. Her book Ray Charles, a nonfiction biography of Ray Charles, received the Coretta Scott King Award. The Hundred Penny Box received a Newber...

Finger Painting Techniques

I am committed to promoting finger painting as a powerful medium for self-expression and creativity. With a background in fine arts, I have honed my skills to create captivating and expressive works of art that engage viewers on a deep emotional level. Summer Blossoms. May 2022. 14 * 18. Afrika Abney Selected Accomplishments: Featured on the book cover of Kaleidoscope with my finger painting "Summer Blossoms" in 2022 Donated my abstract finger painting "Flock of Feathers #1" to Esther Productions, Inc in 2022 Summer Blossoms: https://msafrikaabney.blogspot.com/2023/03/summer-blossoms.html

Color Blend Experiences

Color Blend Experiences. Digital art created on canvas. August 4, 2024. Afrika Abney “Blending is a painting technique where two different colors are slightly mixed together when wet, giving a smooth transition from one color to the next. The transition color will be a product of the two blended colors (i.e., if you blend blue into yellow, the transition color will be green).The combination of primary and secondary colors is known as tertiary or intermediate colors, due to their compound nature. Blue-green, blue-violet, red-orange, red-violet, yellow-orange, and yellow-green are color combinations you can make from color mixing.” Dynamic and seasoned professional with over 25 years of experience in fostering innovation through the blending of diverse perspectives, cultures, and ideas. Possesses a strong understanding of color theory and application, particularly in the context of blending techniques, which create seamless transitions and vibrant compositions. Adept at leveraging the p...

Attention to detail

Detail-oriented professional with a strong commitment to accuracy and precision in all tasks. Recognized for the ability to meticulously analyze information, identify discrepancies, and implement effective solutions. Proven track record of delivering high-quality results in fast-paced environments, ensuring compliance with standards and enhancing overall efficiency. Adept at managing multiple priorities while maintaining a keen focus on the finer points, contributing to the successful completion of projects and objectives. Quote found on the Internet “It's a valuable skill in the workplace that can increase productivity and efficiency, and help projects and initiatives succeed. Here are some ways to improve your attention to detail in the workplace: Active listening: Give your full attention to the speaker, maintain eye contact, and nod your head to show you're listening. This can help you understand what they're saying, identify areas for clarification, and formulate an a...

March is Women's History Month - Ms. Georgette S. Powell

March is Women's History Month - Ms. Georgette S. Powell In 1999, I had the opportunity to participate in art exhibit that took place at the Children's National Medical Center and met Ms. Georgette S. Powell. "Georgette Seabrook Powell was born in Charleston, SC in 1916 and raised in New York City. After graduating from The Cooper Union School of Art, she became active in the Harlem Arts Workshop. Powell was inspired by Augusta Savage (A’25), a young sculptor and the newly appointed director of the Harlem Arts Workshop. Powell learned from the dedication Savage gave to teaching arts in the Harlem community, and teaching became a cornerstone in her life as well. Powell was employed by the WPA, along with a team of artists, to create a series of murals for the Harlem Hospital Art Project. Her murals, titled Recreation in Harlem, depicted the daily lives, struggles and joys of Harlem’s residents. Once the murals had been completed, they were pronounced “too controversial” b...

Pivotal Moments

Flyer created in 2019 for Doc Powell, Founder of the Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers by Ms. Afrika Abney. “Back when Art All Night first took root in the Shaw neighborhood in 2011, I was enthusiastically involved in providing numerous services. As the years went by, my journey took me through various artistic landscapes, culminating in a significant opportunity in 2019. That year, I had the privilege of collaborating with the Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers, who showcased their incredible talents at Art All Night in Deanwood. Despite my involvement in these pivotal moments, I did not participate in the H Street Festival or Art All Night, reflecting my evolving focus and the different avenues through which I engage with the arts community.” I provided services for the Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers from 2001 - 2020. I have not provided any services for them since 2020. Selected Expertise & Skills: I bring a unique blend of creativity, organizational skill...

Ms. Afrika Abney - Consultant Branding Blog

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