Dreams & Defiance: Centering Cultural Expressions of People of African Descent
In celebration of the International Day of People of African Descent, UN Human Rights celebrates the important contributions of people of African descent worldwide. This dynamic pre-recorded event provides an opportunity to learn more about diverse cultures through film, dance, music and some the magnificent artwork on display at United Nations Headquarters. Segments in the film share how individuals and communities celebrate their diverse stories while recognizing the cultural, artistic, scientific, and political contributions of people of African descent. Many of the arts shared highlight the interconnectedness of past to present, including the legacy of the transatlantic trade in enslaved Africans, colonialism, mass incarceration, and systemic racism. Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic has illuminated inequality in access to quality health care and treatment, leading to increased mortality and morbidity for people of African descent. The cultural expressions presented in the film center collective dreams of freedom while the arts embody organized defiance against the effects of racism.
Presented by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, this event was made possible with the help by the Permanent Mission of the Dominican Republic to the United Nations, Consulate General of the Dominican Republic in New York City, Marija Abney, founder of The Soapbox Presents, Jose Ortiz (Dr. Drum), BombaYo, and Danielle Lima, Associate Director of Curriculum & Professional Development at Dancing Classrooms.
The artwork featured in the film, displayed at United Nations Headquarters, are: Nimba, donor: Guinea, Guro Sculpture, donor country: Côte d’Ivoire, Steel Pan(s), donor: Caribbean Community, and The Ark of Return.
This is a collaborative celebration curated by Derrick León Washington (OHCHR), with the facilitation assistance of Javier Hernández Valencia (OHCHR), Jonathan Fowler (DCO/DGC), and Kadidiatou Traore (DPPA-DPO-SS).
To find out more about the International Day of People of African Descent, the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights’ work on issues related to people of African descent, related human rights initiatives, and the UN Art Collection, please visit the following links: