The word “Djembe” means “together,” and what better way to celebrate Black History Month than by learning to play the Djembe drum? Recently, C+FS staff gathered in the gymnasium for an immersive educational and musical experience. Youssou Lo, an instructor from the African American Cultural Center, taught everyone how to play various instruments and shared their cultural significance.
“Our Black History Month celebration, led by DEI Committee members Angie Castro and Shea Akers, highlights how critical Equity and Inclusion work is to our mission and our community,” explained Yvonne DuBois, Chief Equity and Inclusion Officer. “We learned not only about the Djembe drum but how the Senegalese culture, among so many others, influences the Black experience.”
Everyone took turns learning their assigned instruments, practicing their parts and sharing laughter along the way. Once participants felt more confident, they joined together to create music. Youssou challenged a few attendees to swap instruments, giving several people the chance to play more than one role.
As the event drew to a close, Youssou performed on his Djembe drum, then encouraged participants to find their rhythm during a freestyle session.
“No one plays the Djembe alone,” Yvonne reflected. “This is a powerful reminder that no one does this work alone either.”
A special thank you to Classic Soul Catering, Sweet to Di Belly Restaurant and Yalley’s African Restaurant for providing a delicious spread of food from across the Black Diaspora. And a big thank you to the C+FS DEI Committee for organizing and hosting such a meaningful event!