by Erin Byers,
Every year, thousands of fans gather in the Commodore Barry park in Brooklyn, New York to celebrate the creation of AfroPunk music. Artist from all over the world fly in to display their talents as the crowd revels in the culture. Although the music is what connects each individual at the festival, social activism plays a pivotal role in the creation and initiative.
The global festival takes place each year in a total of five major cities across the world, and emphasizes on the importance of the movement. “With the many unique voices behind the movement, the initiative aims to disrupt narrow definitions and stereotypes popularized by global media outlets.” -AfroPunkAGI
The upcoming Brooklyn festival takes place this summer, August 25th and 26th, where artist such as Erykah Badu, Tyler the Creator, Miguel, The Internet, Daniel Caesar, Willow and Jaden Smith , H.E.R, Mahalia, SMINO, Jacob Banks, Twin Shadow and much more will hit stages and display the true meaning of what a festival is.
The festival doesn’t just offer musical performances, but social activities for people to engage in. SpinThrift Market features over dozens of authentic vendors that specialize in DIY jewelry, natural beauty products, clothing and accessories, household items, literature, black art and much more.
The market specializes in items made “for us, by us.” Keeping the cultural aspect and Afro vibes throughout the festival.
My favorite part of AfroPunk, besides the music, the art activations and murals. During set breaks, being able to contribute to the walls of art made me feel not only apart of the movement but the movement itself.
As if the festival didn’t offer enough engagement, festival goers can learn about local grassroots and non-profit organizations in the area. On Activism row, you not only gain knowledge of the problems within the community but how you as a person can help solve them.
AfroPunk isn’t just defining and placing music into a genre, but as shown at the festival, it’s a lifestyle that has influenced fashion choices of attendees.
From body painted tops to no tops, attendees are bold and stand out amongst the crowd.
When it comes to hairstyles, natural takes the win; from braids, twists, dreads, headwraps and more, women of color show off just how magical they are with the versatility of their hair.
My first time attending AfroPunk, the summer of 2016 in Brooklyn, I witnessed the magic:
How the sun kissed the many different shades of color in the crowd.
How the music vibrated through my skin and my bones.
How well known celebrities in the industry such as Spike Lee, happily conversated with me and discussed the importance of representation in the media.
How artist connected with their fans and sang their hearts and souls out on stage, as the crowd raved and demanded an encore.
How women and men from all over embraced one another and truly demonstrated the meaning of black love.
You see, AfroPunk, it’s where I witnessed happiness and joy radiating from person to person.
Where I learned standing out was better than fitting in and how there is an immense group of individuals who do understand the need to speak up and fight against, sexism, racism, ableism, ageism, homophobia, fatphobia, transphobia and hatefulness.
So my advice to readers, check out AfroPunk Music festival this year and witness the magic for yourself.