Cultural exchanges light the future of unity and understanding across continents.
By Darius Spearman (africanelements)
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| Key Takeaways |
|---|
| The 22nd International Conference on African and Afro-American Culture is set to take place in Santiago de Cuba, focusing on the intangible cultural heritage of Africa, America, and the Caribbean. |
| The conference will see participation from international researchers and members of the African diplomatic corps, fostering a global dialogue on African cultural heritage. |
| It aligns with efforts to combat racism and racial discrimination, contributing to the Cuban government’s initiatives in this area. |
| The event will enhance heritage communication management, leveraging the ICT era to promote cultural heritage preservation. |
| Hosted by The African Cultural Centre “Fernando Ortiz,” the conference continues a tradition of enriching discussions on African influence in American culture. |
Overview of the 22nd International Conference on African and Afro-American Culture
Introduction to the Conference
The city of Santiago de Cuba gears up for an extraordinary event. This gathering shines a light on the intangible cultural heritage of Africa, America, and the Caribbean. More than 70 papers will be presented, each unpacking the rich tapestry of African influence across continents.
“On April 12 to 16, the city of Santiago de Cuba will host the 22nd International Conference on African and Afro-American Culture” (ACN).
Moreover, this event is a beacon for international collaboration. Researchers from Colombia, Brazil, and the United States will join forces with members of the African diplomatic corps in Cuba. This partnership underscores a global commitment to celebrating and understanding African cultural heritage.
“which will gather researchers from Colombia, Brazil and the United States, as well as members of the African diplomatic corps in Cuba” (ACN).
Together, they explore themes of race, identity, history, and ethnology, fostering a space for dialogue and reflection. Indeed, the conference acts as a pivotal platform for addressing some of the most pressing cultural and social topics of our time.
Historical Context and Institutional Significance
The African Cultural Centre “Fernando Ortiz”
The African Cultural Centre “Fernando Ortiz” in Santiago De Cuba stands as a beacon of African cultural heritage. Founded on July 25, 1988, it bridges cultures across continents. This center fosters a deeper understanding of African influences in the Americas and the Caribbean. Furthermore, it hosts the annual International Conference on African and Afro-American Culture, enriching the global dialogue on cultural exchange.
“The Institution was created on 25th July 1988 with the objective of promoting the African cultural heritage within the Americas and the Caribbean” (Parliament of Kenya).
This conference, now in its 22nd year, continues to build bridges. It connects scholars, researchers, and the wider community. They come together to share knowledge and insights into the African diaspora’s impact on culture and society. Thus, the center and its conferences play a crucial role. They ensure the preservation and appreciation of African cultural heritage worldwide.
Reflecting on past conferences enriches our understanding. For instance, the 21st conference held in April 2023 set the stage for meaningful cultural exchange. It highlighted the importance of dialogue in fostering mutual understanding and respect. Each year, the event draws attention to the African influence on American culture. This spotlight illuminates the intertwined histories and shared futures of these diverse communities.
Continuing this tradition, the upcoming conference promises to delve even deeper. It will explore the rich tapestry of African cultural heritage and its indelible impact on the Americas and the Caribbean. Through such gatherings, the African Cultural Centre “Fernando Ortiz” ensures that the vibrancy of African culture remains a central part of the global cultural discourse.
Themes and Objectives
Exploring African Influence
The conference meticulously explores the African presence and its profound influence on Caribbean and Cuban culture. It navigates through discussions on race, identity, history, and ethnology. This exploration is vital. It reveals how African roots have shaped the fabric of these societies.
“The event will analyze the African presence and influence in the Caribbean and Cuban culture, race, identity, history, ethnology” (Cubarte).
Previous conferences have tackled various themes. These include the achievements of the Cuban Revolution and the independence struggles in other nations. These discussions enrich our understanding. They connect the past and present, showing the African diaspora’s impact on cultural identities.
A Platform for Dialogue and Understanding
The event serves as a crucial platform. It bonds experts, scholars, and those interested in African and African American issues. Together, they reflect on the most urgent cultural and social topics of our time. This open space for dialogue is a cornerstone of the conference’s objectives.
“The event proposes to bond experts, scholars and people interested in African and African American issues, opening a space for reflection on the most urgent …” (AfroCubaWeb).
Moreover, the conference aims to bring together a diverse group of participants. This diversity fosters a richer dialogue. It opens up new perspectives on pressing issues. By doing so, the conference enriches the discourse on cultural identity and heritage in the Americas. Through these gatherings, participants forge connections. They share knowledge and insights, building a more inclusive understanding of our shared history and future.
Addressing Racism and Racial Discrimination
The conference aligns with Cuba’s national efforts to combat racism and racial discrimination. It stands as a beacon of progress. The event actively supports the Cuban government’s political will to eradicate these societal evils.
“the conference, which responds effectively to the National Program against Racism and Racial Discrimination” (ACN).
Moreover, this gathering acts as a catalyst for change. It fosters discussions that challenge racial prejudices. Furthermore, it celebrates cultural diversity. Thus, it contributes significantly to the broader dialogue on racial equality.
Additionally, the conference showcases how cultural understanding can bridge divides. It illuminates the path toward a more inclusive society. By doing so, it reinforces the idea that diversity enriches rather than divides.
In essence, the conference underscores the importance of solidarity. It champions the cause of racial equality. Therefore, it not only celebrates African and Afro-American cultures but also promotes a world free of racial discrimination. Through such initiatives, we move closer to a society where everyone is valued equally.
Advancements in Heritage Communication
Institutional and Technological Development
The conference aims to elevate heritage communication within the digital age, focusing on enhancing strategies for preserving and promoting cultural heritage. This objective is crucial; it ensures the legacy of African and Afro-American cultures thrives in our modern society.
“will also contribute to improve heritage communication management at institutional level in the ICT era.” (ACN).
Embracing Digital Platforms for Cultural Preservation
Modern technologies play a pivotal role in sharing the richness of African cultural heritage worldwide. By making heritage accessible to younger generations through digital platforms, the conference bridges the gap between traditional knowledge and modern technology.
Fostering Global Collaboration
The event encourages collaboration among institutions, strengthening the global network dedicated to cultural preservation. This united effort promotes a deeper global understanding and appreciation of African and Afro-American heritage, demonstrating the power of collective action in the preservation of cultural identity.
Through these focused discussions and initiatives, the advancements in heritage communication presented at the conference serve as a guiding light for combining technology with cultural preservation. The aim is to amplify the voice and impact of heritage, ensuring the stories of African and Afro-American cultures continue to inspire and educate across the globe.
FAQ Section
Q: What is the focus of the 22nd International Conference on African and Afro-American Culture?
A: The conference focuses on the intangible cultural heritage of Africa, America, and the Caribbean, aiming to foster global dialogue on these cultures.
Q: Who will attend the conference?
A: International researchers, members of the African diplomatic corps, and individuals interested in African and Afro-American issues will be in attendance.
Q: How does the conference contribute to combating racism?
A: The conference aligns with the Cuban government’s efforts to combat racism and racial discrimination, promoting dialogue and understanding across cultures.
Q: What role does the African Cultural Centre “Fernando Ortiz” play in the conference?
A: The center hosts the conference, providing a platform for cultural exchange and discussions on African influence in American culture.
Q: How is the conference addressing the challenges of heritage communication in the digital era?
A: The event aims to improve heritage communication management, leveraging modern technologies to preserve and promote cultural heritage globally.
About the author:
Darius Spearman is a professor of Black Studies at San Diego City College, where he has been pursuing his love of teaching since 2007. He is the author of several books, including Between The Color Lines: A History of African Americans on the California Frontier Through 1890. You can visit Darius online at africanelements.org.
