Kazemde Ajamu has always had his eye – and heart – on bringing Black culture and history to the forefront, especially among the younger generation. It’s not just in his nature, but part of his mission at the Black Dot Cultural Center and Bookstore. On Saturday, Sept. 28, Ajamu will take his passion for cultural immersion to the next level with the first-ever Black Dot Culture and Art Festival at 6984 Main Street, Lithonia, Georgia. From 12-8 pm, the one-of-a-kind event will feature food, fun and performances by Akosua Tait, Giwayen Mata, RareEpiphany and special guest Michon Young.
“For me, it’s so important that we come together and really get to experience all of the different forms and aspects of our culture first-hand. We’re tapping into all of your senses for a day filled with celebrating Black culture,” said Ajamu, the festival host and owner of Black Dot Cultural Center and Bookstore.
Much like how Ajamu provides access to Black artisans and creators at his cafe, attendees can support and shop with a variety of vendors of handcrafted products. They can also get a taste of the wildly popular vegan restaurant Green Love Kitchen while strolling the streets of Lithonia.
The festival is just one way that Ajamu – affectionately known as Baba Kaz – gives back and helps his customers move from the unconscious state to the conscious knowing. He does it every day with the unique offerings at his store where shoppers can get the finest African coffee, books and fashions with sides of wisdom and culture-sharing. Neighboring businesses and people from Lithonia and beyond appreciate Ajamu’s commitment to promoting positivity and community. Supporters and members of the community, including Mayor Deborah Jackson, will also take part in the celebration. Additionally, the festival will shine the spotlight on young and emerging talent – from African drummers to spoken word artists.
If anyone knows the importance of exploring and uncovering Black culture, particularly for the next generation, it’s Ajamu. He’s strategically weaved culture into everything he does. The name of his business reflects how the Black dot is an ancient Afrikan symbol for Blackness. In 2014, he published his first book Think Black: The Manifesto, a thought-provoking read centered on the importance of Black businesses, family and community. He’s also designed a line of legacy t-shirts and hoodies to complement the “Think Black” brand and to prompt pride. The day-long street festival will incorporate the many facets of Black culture that Ajamu celebrates daily. For more information about this free event, visit http://bit.ly/blackdotcaf.
