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.

MIDNIGHTROSE: A Reading Series of Poetry and Prose features Mr. Kenneth Carroll, Ms. Elizabeth Bruce and Ms.Sasa Aakil

“MidnightRose serves as a vibrant platform that highlights the diverse voices of multigenerational and multicultural writers from the Washington Metropolitan Region and beyond. This initiative is brought to life by Esther Productions Inc., in collaboration with The Institute for African American Writing and The Black Student Fund. The series aims to celebrate the literary talents within the community, showcasing a variety of poetic and prose works that reflect the rich tapestry of experiences and perspectives that define the region. Attendees of MidnightRose can expect to engage with a dynamic array of award-winning poets and authors, each bringing their unique narratives and artistic expressions to the forefront. The event not only serves as a performance space but also as a gathering that fosters dialogue and connection among writers and audiences alike. By immersing oneself in the powerful words and stories shared during the series, participants are invited to explore themes o...

Spectrum of Imagination

I would like to share insights regarding a selection of my artwork, which I developed using a painting application that was launched in November 1985. At that time, I was just nine years old and attending NationHouse, a private school with a focus on African-centered education. This early exposure to a creative environment played a significant role in shaping my artistic journey. It is important to note that my foray into the realm of digital art did not commence until several years after my initial experiences with traditional forms of creativity. The painting application, while groundbreaking for its time, was not the catalyst for my digital artistry; rather, it served as an early introduction to the possibilities of art in a digital format. My artistic development evolved gradually, influenced by various mediums and techniques over the years. Reflecting on my artistic evolution, I recognize that the foundation laid during my formative years at NationHouse has been instrumental in m...

Blogs for marketing and strategy purposes

" A blogger is someone who runs and controls a blog . He or she shares his or her opinion and knowledge on different topics for a target audience. Many bloggers feel strongly about an issue or topic, and they are motivated to write about it to bring attention to a need. This might be a social issue or cause, a problem that needs to be fixed, a belief or value that they hold strongly, or just a desire to help people. Blogging enables you to reach the billions of people that use the Internet . Blogging can help you promote yourself or your business. Blogging works as a method for attracting an audience because it provides something of value to them before asking for anything in return. Blogs are often used to promote a business or company, though some blogs have become business in and of themselves." I created this blog to inform viewers about various topics that is connected to my work and services that I offer and provide as a consultant. This is not a per...

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 DISCOVERY SUMMIT AND SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS CEREMONY

For Immediate Release Contact: Esther Productions, Inc Email to estherproductionsinc@gmail.com Website: estherproductionsinc.com THE DISCOVERY SUMMIT AND SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS CEREMONY (Washington, DC) - Join Esther Productions, Inc and Black Student Fund for THE DISCOVERY SUMMIT AND SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS CEREMONY held on Dec 10, 2022 from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM EST at Cleveland Park Library, 3310 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008. ABOUT THE EVENT Each year since 2019, Esther Productions Inc. has presented a unique scholarship essay contest that invites young ladies aged 13 through 18 to submit essays that tell their stories about growing up without their fathers and building their resilience as they face that challenge. A group of accomplished artists, educators, clinicians, business and civic leaders serve as judges. Cash prizes ranging from $1500 to $500 are given to the top winners during the Discovery Summit and Scholarship Awards Ceremony. This year, the event is presen...

Dancing Fire #1 & 2

Dancing Fire #1 Acrylic on Canvas $350.00 24 * 36 1997 Afrika Abney Vibrant hues of red, yellow, and orange blend seamlessly with darker tones, creating a vivid and dynamic composition. The central area is illuminated, giving the impression of light bursting through clouds. Dancing Fire #2 Acrylic on Canvas $350.00 24 * 36 1997 Afrika Abney A vibrant explosion of colors featuring blends of red, blue, and pink with hints of green and yellow emits a cosmic or nebula-like atmosphere. The interplay of colors creates a sense of depth and movement, evoking an abstract and dynamic feeling.

Katherine Dunham

"Dunham Technique is a vibrant African American dance form that engages the body, mind and spirit! Created by dance pioneer Katherine Dunham, the technique is informed by the traditional dances of the African Diaspora, as well as by modern and ballet." I studied Dunham Technique from Dr. Sherrill Berryman Johnson. " Katherine Dunham Legendary dancer, choreographer and anthropologist, Katherine Dunham was born on June 22,1909 in Chicago, to an African American father and a French Canadian mother. She sang in her local Methodist Church in Joliet; but for a financial crisis at her church, she might never have sung anything but gospel songs. At age eight, she amazed and scandalized the elders of her church by doing a performance of decidedly non-religious songs at a cabaret party, in order to raise money. She never thought about a career in dance. Instead, she consented to her family's wish that she become a teacher and followed her brother, Albert Dunh...

Cultural Spectrum

My enthusiasm is deeply rooted in the art-making process, which provides me with a platform to convey my distinct viewpoint and life experiences. Being a Black American, I find profound inspiration in my cultural background and the diverse stories that contribute to my sense of self. This ongoing commitment to my artistic practice not only ignites my imagination but also acts as a bridge to connect with others, promoting conversation and empathy through the medium of visual art. The act of creating art is a significant passion of mine, enabling me to articulate my individual insights and personal journey. As a Black American, I am influenced by my cultural lineage and the myriad of narratives that inform my identity. This persistent dedication to my craft not only enhances my creative expression but also facilitates connections with a wider audience, encouraging meaningful exchanges and a deeper understanding through the power of visual storytelling. Engaging in the creation of art is...

Brain Gilmore at Francis Gregory - This Saturday

Award-winning poet Brian Gilmore will read excerpts from his upcoming book " No More Worlds To Conquer: The Black Poet in Washington DC Since Paul Laurence Dunba r" on Saturday, March 16, 2024 at Francis Gregory. " BRIAN GILMORE is a native of Washington D.C., a poet and long-time public interest attorney. He is also the author of four books of poetry and numerous essays for The Progressive Magazine. Brian has won numerous awards, including the 2020 Michigan Notable Book Award for his book, come see about me marvin (Wayne State University Press). He is Senior Lecturer in the Law and Society Program at the University of Maryland - College Park." Register at https://www. estherproductionsinc.com/ events-1/african-americans- and-childrens-literature-on- tour Please join him along with Ms. Mathis on Saturday. Info: aachildrenslit2023@ gmail.com

Background and Services

Since 2016, I have not provided any dance performance services. Additionally, I have not engaged in providing complimentary services for an extended period. My involvement in educational services came to an end in 2018, and I have since moved away from that aspect of my work entirely. It is crucial for me to maintain a high level of respect and accuracy in my professional endeavors, particularly as I have dedicated considerable time to branding, creating digital art, and delivering my services. While my past experiences are no longer the primary focus of my career, it is essential to recognize the breadth of my background. My journey has been shaped by a variety of roles and responsibilities that have contributed to my overall diverse array of expertise. The skills and insights I have gained over the years continue to inform my work, even as I have transitioned away from certain services. This evolution reflects my commitment to growth and adaptation in a rapidly changing landscape. ...

Ms. Afrika Abney - Consultant Branding Blog

Search This Blog