Family, friends and surrounding residents came out to Lock 3 on July 18 to embrace the 45th annual Akron African American Festival. The theme was “Eban,” which means love, safety, and security.
The free event features vendors, food, games, clothing, community groups/organizations, universities, fraternities & sororities, beauty, health & wellness, youths, sports, artists and performers. At each booth you could find yourself learning about practically anything, such as family services resources.
Debra Calhoun, co-chair of the Akron African American Cultural Association, stated that it turned out to be a good event for Akron because 80% of vendors and food truck owners come from the local area.
“The money that’s generated at this event goes right back into those economic endeavors. That’s to show how much we pump back into the city,” said Calhoun.
But for Calhoun, it’s more than just an event, it’s for people of all ages to learn about one of Akron’s communities and what Akron has to offer.
“You can’t reach everybody all at once. You almost have to target and go to individual community members to make that connection possible. Whether it’s for lead paint, education, mental health services, I believe our event helps contribute to that process,” said Calhoun.
Ego Adigwe is a Cleveland resident originally from Nigeria and was excited to be back for her second year.
“I’m glad that they have something like this, representing culture,” said Adigwe.
At Adigwe’s booth you can find her smiling and dancing next to her authentic clothes and jewelry from Nigeria and other African countries. She has a shop in Cleveland on Buckeye Road at East 117th Street and aside from selling clothes, she has a cooking business called Ego’s Kitchen.
She specializes in Nigerian food, of course, but also makes Afro-Caribbean soul food. For food or clothing inquiries, she can be reached at foodbyegoskitchen@gmail.com or 216-418-1502.
“Bring those customers,” said Adigwe.
The music during the festival was managed by DJ EZ Money, Mike Austin and Melrose Eve.
Some of the event’s sponsors are the Akron NAACP, Summit County Children Services, Akron Children’s Hospital, 100 Black Men of Akron, Summit County Progressive Democrats PAC, and the city of Akron.
Will the festival be all weekend long?
The festival continues from noon to 9 p.m. July 19 and July 20.
DJ Hitman, Russell Thompson, Timi Funk and The Beck Ward Project are scheduled for Saturday. DJ Tashabeatz, Djapo Cultural Art Institute and Rayr Image will be Sunday’s entertainment.
This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Akron African American Festival at Lock 3 has theme of love, safety and security
Reporting by Alisson Toro-Lagos, Akron Beacon Journal / Akron Beacon Journal
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
