Our Conference is inspired by the distinctive musical forms created by Afro-descendant people and cultures in North America, borrowing from African traditions, and shaped mainly by the Black experience in the United States. This music, enriched by a unique interaction with other music genres both in the Americas and in other parts of the world, has been a powerful force promoting social justice and freedom of the human spirit.”
– Professor Allison Blakely
Director, African American Studies Program