Yes, I got there on time to witness the opening ceremony of the 22nd Annual African Marketplace and Cultural Faire on the playgrounds of Rancho La Cienega Park by Dorsey High School in Los Angeles. The venue which was moved last year from the historical Exposition Park was full of fanfare reminding me of the Orie Amigwes in my native land.
Sponsored by Los Angeles Metropolitan Authority, The Walt Disney Company, Western Union, Time Warner Cable, Whole Foods Market, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, 93.5 KDAY, 94.7 The vWave, City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs and several other related sponsors, I couldn't but give kudos to the organizers who have kept this cultural thing going for twenty-two years.
I took a tour of all the booths and you would not believe how our cultural heritage has grown over the years. I watched jazz singer Dawn Norfleet entertain the audience with her powerful lyrics. Stay tuned for updates.