Kwanzaa in August (K.I.A.) is an initiative that kicked off Aug. 3–5, 2018 east of the river in Washington, D.C. at the Anacostia Arts center.
The festival promoted the ideals of the seven principles (Unity, Self-Determination Collective Work & Responsibility, Cooperative Economics, Purpose, Creativity and Faith) known as the Nguzo Saba through musical performances, workshops, and feature presentations.
Kwanzaa in August, presented by Liberated Muse Arts Group, began as a commemoration of Liberated Muse’s 10th anniversary as a collective of artists presenting quality multi-disciplinary cultural arts programming.
I had a blast at the opening reception, jamming with the Deep Water Jazz Band.
Big shouts to Khadijah who let me read a few pieces and promote the Black Authors Showcase the next day.
Then the Gray Beard Poets closed out the night.
I almost forgot to mention the refreshments.
The festival had a nice mix of workshops and featured presentations.
I enjoyed reading with Tracy Chiles McGhee and A. Jarrell Hayes during the Black Authors Showcase.
I kicked off the reading.
Then this conversation followed our set.
Other presentations included these.
Watch the slideshow to see more.