AKOMA DAYS
:Februari 13-15, marks the annual celebration of the Akoma Festival. The Akoma Festival is an outgrowth of Black Love Day (Februari 13), created by Ayo Handy-Kendi, who saw the dire need of love in our community after the violent death of her son.
With Sister Kendi’s blessing, TEACH in St. Louis expanded Black Love Day to the three day celebration of the Akoma Festival.
Akoma is both an Adinkra symbol and saying among the Akan people of west Afrika and is translated to mean “Have a heart.” Akoma celebrates love and care as active practices that require courage. This is especially important in a society that fails to promote these values in general, but especially among Black people.
During the Akoma Festival, we take time to show love for the Creator, ourselves, family members, our community, and our people. It is a time for healing, reconciliation, strengthening our bonds, and loving ourselves.
For more on the Akoma Festival, and ways to celebrate it, please read below.
With Sister Kendi’s blessing, TEACH in St. Louis expanded Black Love Day to the three day celebration of the Akoma Festival.
Akoma is both an Adinkra symbol and saying among the Akan people of west Afrika and is translated to mean “Have a heart.” Akoma celebrates love and care as active practices that require courage. This is especially important in a society that fails to promote these values in general, but especially among Black people.
During the Akoma Festival, we take time to show love for the Creator, ourselves, family members, our community, and our people. It is a time for healing, reconciliation, strengthening our bonds, and loving ourselves.
For more on the Akoma Festival, and ways to celebrate it, please read below.