Tickets are free but space is limited for a Black History Month celebration in Surrey.
An organization called Unity Centre Association for Black Cultures (UCABC) is planning an event at Surrey City Hall called “The Black Experience Expressed through the Arts,” on Saturday, Feb. 1, from 1 to 5 p.m.
“We will recognize and celebrate the talents, achievements, and historical contributions of B.C.’s diverse Black community,” promises a post at eventbrite.ca, where people can register for free tickets.
Donations are welcomed to help the association “to continue fulfilling its commitment to building a ‘Hub’ to enable programs that reflect and acknowledge the history, heritage, and cultural diversity of Black Canadians, other Black people and all individuals who associate with the cultures of the African diaspora in Canadian society.”
The event in Surrey will feature both live performances and displayed artwork, according to Tasha Clarke, public relations rep for UCABC. “This showcase of talent is guaranteed to provide an afternoon full of feel-good vibes,” she said.
Last fall, in advance of the event, UCABC posted a call for artists on the group’s website, ucabc.ca, and social media channels.
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Hi Everyone! The Unity Centre Association for Black Cultures (UCABC) is currently planning for our upcoming Black History Month 2020 event being held in sponsorship by the City of Surrey at the Surrey Arts Center early February. Pls reach out to unitycabc@gmail.com if interested! pic.twitter.com/IamqDhZJkh
— The Unity Centre Association For Black Cultures (@unityucabc) October 7, 2019
An updated list of featured performers at the event in Surrey includes Stephanie Amadasun (female vocalist), Phyllis Adelyne (singer/songwriter from Halifax), Dr. Henry Daniel (artist and scholar), Tajah Olson (body decoration, dance, costumes), Arami the Corrector (rap lyricist), Afro Van Connect (youth performers with roots in Jamaica, Uganda and Burundi), Paul Choisil (saxophonist), Kassa Jones (reggae/hip-hop performer), Ashley Tendesai (Kenyan-born vocalist) and King Fish (Jamaican native and limbo guru).
Also at the event, the UCABC will present awards to two local organizations, Eyes For The World (established in 2016 to provide essential eye care to developing countries around the world) and UMOJA Operation Compassion Society of British Columbia (formed in 2002 to work with newcomer immigrants and refugees living in Surrey).
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Vendors and artisans at the event will include Tajah Olson (digital and painting art collection), Lilian O’Brien (traditional African fashion, jewelry and accessories), Joy Unegabu of Kurent Designs (fashion and accessories), Notha Afro Can Trends (traditional African jewelry and accessories), Phyllis Adelyne States (CDs of her personal music) and Patricia Sparks (canvas paintings).
