African American hair braiding has a deep cultural, ethnic, and social history. In many societies hair braiding reflected social status, marital status or even tribal affiliation. Hair braiding the US reflects history and creativity with variations in styles geographically or based upon the stylists own values. Divine Faith Studio and Divine Hair Goods will demonstrate … Read more
Toni Ham was the sole creator of Toni’s Designs and was the drive behind this unique millinery art. Her character comes through these hat designs, showing every bit of sophistication, fierceness, and beauty. When it came to fashion, for as long as I can remember, Toni always dressed to perfection and with grace. Most of Toni’s style … Read more
Born and raised in Connecticut, I was familiar with eating and cooking fresh seafood. Visiting family in Virginia and North Carolina taught me ways to add some Southern flare. In 2000 we started OTH Seafood here in Tucson. It brings pleasure watching people enjoy our food. Check out reviews on Yelp, Facebook & Instagram!
Our group sponsor Sterling has participated in the festival since 1998 with the COGIC Women Department booth. Last year was our first debut with a booth and flavor of our own. We are alumni from Historically Black Colleges and Universities living in Tucson. For over last 25 years BBQs have been a special part of our family … Read more
Dr. Michael Engs, of Arizona Heritage Tours, brings to the kitchen the lesser-known contributions of African-descent people who first reached the Southwest in 1538 through events related to Spanish exploration, conquest, and settlement. Some came involuntarily as enslaved people, others as free adventurers and entrepreneurs. A second wave came by way of the western expansion … Read more
Conversants: SELINA MORALES, Folklorist; ROD AMBROSE, Storyteller; BARBEA WILLIAMS, Theater/Dance Artist Storytelling as manifestation of change in African and African American communities is an ancient and powerful community practice. Listen and learn from a conversation between folklorist Selina Morales and SFA Master Artist; community leader, movement builder and storyteller, Rod Ambrose; and dance/theater artists Barbea … Read more