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Join us as we open our week- long celebration by paying homage and respect to the Indigenous Hawaiian community. We honor their enduring commitment to preserving and perpetuating their culture. We seek their blessing and pay tribute to the elders who came before us, those who walk alongside us in the ongoing pursuit of cultural freedom, relevance and self-sufficiency, and the young people who will pick up the torch and carry this work forward.  This evening’s program is led by Cameron Hurt, Common Causes’s newly appointed Hawaii State Director. Common Cause is a national organization dedicated to strengthening campaign finance laws, protecting elections, and expanding voter access. Panelists include Aleeka Kay Morgan and State Representative Justin Woodson. Guests are invited to enjoy complimentary pupus and drinks.

This Tuesday evening event will open with a powerful montage of monologues performed by local Black actors and dancers, highlighting key eras- post-slavery, the 1960’s-70’s and the 21st century. Works by playwrights Langston Hughes, Paul L.Dunbar, George C. Wolfe, Ntozake Shange and Eric Holmes will be showcased. Following the performances, a riveting panel will explore Black theatre, its impact, evolution and presence in Hawai’i. Local theater professionals will examine how Black playwrights have shaped storytelling and transformed the theatrical landscape. The discussion will also address the current state of Black theatre in Hawai’i: What will it take to ensure our stories are told? What challenges do Black actors, directors, and producers face? Panelists include Derrick Brown, Marc Cooper, Allison Francis,Jeanne Wynn Herring, Shelby Holden, Alison Maldonado and Dr. Lillian Jones, all of whom have acted and/or directed in Black Theatre on Oahu. Dr. Jenise Stewart, will serve as Mistress of Ceremonies and moderator of the panel discussion. This is a must - see event for theatre professionals and enthusiasts alike.

On this Wednesday night of exaltation, we’ll explore the profound role spirituality has played in African American culture. We reflect on African spiritual traditions and how they sustained enslaved Africans during the Transatlantic Slave Trade. We will also examine how Christianity was embraced and infused with African spiritual practices. Through storytelling and performances, we will highlight traditions such as the ring shout and sing historic Negro spirituals. This evening will include readings from the Civil Rights Movement and songs centered on liberation, resilience and justice. Our featured performers for this evening is Ms. Oklea Rowe Kahnma Karnga. They will guide the audience through an enchanting evening as we journey through time from Africa to the Americas through sound. This is a night of reflection, celebration, praise and worship!

We’ll close out an incredible week of celebration with a vibrant, fun-filled day of music, dance and community. Enjoy line dancing with The 808 Steppers and experience the rhythms of Samba Reggae! Explore vendors celebrating Black entrepreneurship from waist beads and loc jewelry to African-inspired fashion and more. Come out, connect, and support local Black-owned businesses while enjoying great food, music and fellowship!! After the cookout, stay for the grand finale! This is our moment to thank all the organizers for their hard work and celebrate the success of the festival! We are proud to welcome Sewa Fare as our special guest, bringing joyful dance and storytelling to the stage! The evening will conclude with performances by several of the festival organizers, featuring songs from Black theatre in a powerful celebration of culture and artistry!