FESTIVAL SERIES 2007


Henry Lee Willis Community Center

Mission

The Willis Center Cultural Institute was established in 1997, in response to the need for including people of color in the cultural arts in Central Massachusetts.

The Cultural Institute provides access to cultural activities for both attendees and participants; serves as an advocate for inclusion in the cultural fabric of Central Massachusetts and representation in traditionally established institutions and venues; and it educates and celebrates the cultural heritage of persons of color, particularly African Americans. The African American Festival is a multi dimensional, multi-day celebration presented in a series format. Activities, events and performance pivot Black History Month. One of the underlying principals of the Cultural Institute is educating through experience.

 

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

it's all about the festival exhibit

"It’s All About The Festival" Exhibit: Artwork from the past and current African American Festivals along with artwork representative of the current Series' focus on hair will be on display.

February 1 – 28, 2007
Worcester Public Library 1st Floor
1 Salem Square, Worcester, MA
Free Admission

every vote counts

Every Vote Counts: A Celebration of the 137th Anniversary of the Fifteenth Amendment

Saturday, February 3, 2007, 7 PM
Clark University, Razzo Hall, Traina Center for the Arts
92 Downing Street, Worcester, MA
Admission: $15.00, $5.00 students and seniors, Children under 16, free

never a bad hair day

"Never A Bad Hair Day" Exhibit: Sculptured pieces from various African cultural groups, the Mende, Dan, Ashanti, and Yoruba that personify the features held in high esteem will be on display. The opening on March 3rd will include a lecture and presentation by Fine Art and Black Studies Professor, Roland Obiodun.

March 1- May 31, 2007, Worcester Public Library 2nd Floor
1 Salem Square, Worcester, MA
Free Admission

hair stories

Women and Girls Talk, Screening of the film "Hair Stories" followed by discussion with Dr. Marion Wilson and film's director, Yvette Small.

March 17, 2007, 3PM,
Christ Tabernacle Apostolic Church
1189 Main Street, Worcester, MA.
Admission: $5.00 per person

race matters

"Race Matters, Let’s Talk About It" facilitated by Dr. Raymond Winbush

March 26, 2007, 7:00 PM
Worcester State College, Eager Auditorium
486 Chandler Street, Worcester, MA
Free Admission

heritage family festival

Heritage, Family and Youth Festival

Saturday, June 23, 2007 10:00 – 7:00
Institute Park, Corner of Salisbury Street and Park Avenue
Worcester, MA
Free Admission

 

Related Event: African American Cultural Awareness (Cultural Brokering)

March 23, 2007, 9:00 – 3:30 PM
Worcester State College, Blue Room
486 Chandler Street, Worcester, MA

Open to Service Providers and Mental Health Clients
Cost: $20.00 per person