Blog Post One
Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to represent African Community Kalamazoo at a vibrant community event that brought together thousands of people from all walks of life. It was a day filled with energy, curiosity, and cultural exchange. We set up a table full of colorful African fabrics, artifacts, books, and symbols that reflect our rich heritage. As attendees passed by, many stopped to engage with the display, ask thoughtful questions, and learn more about the history, traditions, and values we hold dear. It was an honor to be able to share our story in such a public space and to see how deeply people connected with our culture.
What made the experience even more meaningful was having my two sons there with me. Though they didn’t speak to the crowd, their presence carried its own quiet power. They stood confidently beside me, helping to organize materials, offering warm smiles, and showing pride in where they come from. They were fully present, representing the next generation of our community with strength, grace, and humility. As a father, it was incredibly moving to watch them absorb the experience—not just as my children, but as young men growing into their identity. They didn’t have to say a word for people to feel the love, pride, and connection that radiated from our table. Their involvement reminded me that cultural representation isn’t always loud—it’s also in how we show up and stand together.
That day reminded me why this work is so important. Representation matters—not just for others to see us, but for our children to see themselves reflected in the spaces they live, grow, and contribute to. Sharing our heritage with the broader community brought a sense of unity, pride, and purpose that I’ll carry with me for a long time. I’m grateful for every person who took the time to stop by, to listen, and to appreciate the beauty of who we are. And I’m especially proud of my sons, who helped bring that beauty to life simply by being present. Moments like these are more than just events—they are powerful acts of connection, culture, and love passed down from one generation to the next.
