Africa Day (formerly African Freedom Day and African Liberation Day) is the annual commemoration of the foundation of the Organization of African Unity on May 25, 1963. It is celebrated in various countries on the African continent as well as around the world.

On May 31st and June 1st, WES will commemorate Africa Day in the building as a connection to the Black community in DC. WES member Busola Obitayo, long-time DC Labor Chorus member Sonia Kassambara, and staff member Maceo Thomas convened a diverse committee of community members to bring to action a celebration of the African Diaspora focused around the theme of the Manthia Diawara’s film AI: African Intelligence.

The film will be shown Saturday at approximately 8pm in the main hall. The day begins Saturday at 11am and examines the African technologies as manifested through drumming, fashion and food. We examine an up-close and personal history of Sudan. We will have dance classes out front and music throughout.

On Sunday, June 1st, Ethical Culture Leader Christian Hayden returns to WES to lead the platform talk: Maroonage: Learning from the African Diaspora’s Eternal Search for Liberation. Platform will be followed with a discussion of African technologies showcased in pop-culture as we examine author Percival Everett’s Pulitzer winning masterpiece James and Ryan Coogler’s hit film Sinners. Email bobitayo1@gmail.com for more information.