Celebration Of Caribbean-American Heritage Headed To Brooklyn

New York, NY — A celebration on Caribbean Americans is taking over part of Brooklyn next week.

The celebration is being held on Thursday, June 27th, from 12 to 9 p.m. at Brooklyn Borough Hall, at 209 Joralemon Street.

The idea of a Caribbean-American Heritage month originated in 2005 when Congresswoman Barbara Lee wanted to recognize the influence of Caribbean-Americans on American history and culture.

Last year, the celebration boasted food from more than 15 restaurants, traditional dance performances and art. In an interview with Voices of NY, committee member Hazra Ali said,“My work with Caribbean-American Heritage Month has almost made me feel like I belong to all the countries."

The schedule for this year's celebration is as follows:

• 12:00PM-2:30PM Caribbean Cultural Marketplace on the Plaza
• 2:00PM-4:00PM Symposium “Brain Gain” Opportunities for Caribbean Nation Building
• 4:00PM-6:00PM A taste of Caribbean Cuisine Samplings from Various Eateries
• 6:30PM-9:00PM Concert on the Plaza featuring Grammy Award-Winning Artist Ansiem Douglass Writer and Performer of “Who Let the Dogs Out”

There is also an Art Exhibit by Cheyenne Sookoo on display in the Community Room of Brooklyn Borough Hall from June 5th-June 28th.

The educational symposium, “From Brain Drain to Brain Circulation - A Role For The Diaspora In Caribbean Development Challenges” will be moderated by Eugene Persoo, the director of International Education at Medgar Evers College, CUNY.

Panelists include:

• Dr. Terrance Blackman - Professionalism for Development
• Ms. Cheyenne Sookoo - Opportunities in Vocation
• Dr. Selma Bartholomew - Education for Today’s World
• Mr. Christopher Browne - The Diaspora: A Significant Market

Honorable Mr. Oral St. E. Mackie Holder, Consul General of Barbados, will be the keynote speaker.

For more details, and to RSVP, click here.