July 2015 Caribbean-American Cultural FROM PAGE 1


and to bring the highest quality of Caribbean performing arts and cultural experiences that would enrich the cultural, economic and social vitality of the citizens as their mission. Their goal was to provide continued development opportunities,


promote their


culture and heritage, and to generally advance the interests of others. With tons of hard work and a very modest budget, Mr. Forde and his passionate team also set out to bring the spirit of


the Caribbean to Hampton


Roads through an annual festival “CaribFest,” and they pulled it off. CaribFest is one of the grandest festivals in Virginia and one of the most important in terms of highlighting some of the Caribbean and African Diasporic culture and traditions.


The festival people attracts thousands


of visitors to Norfolk breaking down social, racial and cultural barriers to bring


together for loads of


fun and excitement. CaribFest is the organization’s biggest fundraiser, the proceeds of which are used not only to continue to educate and share the Caribbean culture with the community at large, but also allows the organization to serve as a charitable services provider to economically vulnerable


individuals and families


in our community. The organization’s programs focus include children, veterans,


homeless, students, and low income individuals. During the organization’s brief history, many lives have been enriched through programs and services such as providing school supplies to Elementary and Junior High School students; providing new/ in good repair winter coats to children and the homeless; distribution of food to vulnerable community residents to help fight hunger; and scholarships to High School Seniors and second year College Students with demonstrated financial need. Additionally, the organization


is working towards


the development of a permanent Caribbean Cultural Center to promote greater cooperation and unity among the Caribbean people living in the Hampton Roads area.


As the organization embarks


on its 10th anniversary, Mr. Forde reflected on the challenges that had to be overcome to get approval to hold this unique cultural celebration. Foremost, was convincing city officials of the significance the festival can have on raising the profile of African/Black/Caribbean influences on culture, food, art, music and dance to the citizens and how we all can learn more about ourselves, by accepting and understanding other cultures and most importantly, that with management the


Festival could


proper be


turned into a profitable venture for the city. After persuasive discussions, final approval was gained.


For many Caribbean-Americans and others of the African Diaspora, CaribFest is a cultural event that serves as a symbol of historical significance, connectedness and heritage pride. It is an opportunity for different people from all over the country to learn about heritage and culture while at the same time enjoying the time of their lives!


Today, CaribFest is more than a festival. It is an adventure. It is a colorful and festive celebration rooted in


African traditions. One Caribbean


of the highlights of the festival is a grand costume street parade that


musicality is


well-worth the visit even if you don’t get to do anything else. The parade’s rich rhythmic


promotes


all types of cultures. Participants can be seen as revelers masquerading through the streets in dazzling handmade costumes with rhythmic dancing to the beat of calypso and soca. The festival also includes other musical types such as reggae (from Jamaica), tassa drumming (from the East


Indian tradition in Trinidad),


cadence (from the Virgin Islands, Haiti and Dominica), zuk (from St Lucia), Latin salsa, as well as pop and R&B from America. One particular type of music is pan music that is performed with the steelpan or steeldrum, steel


a percussion instrument


was invented in Trinidad and Tobago and has the distinction of being the only non-electronic music instrument invented in the 20th century.


organized into masquerade groups with their own bands performing different sounds with a particular historical or unique fantasy theme. The different masquerade groups are often led by "kings" and "queens" wearing


the


most spectacular and lavish costumes. The colorful costumes are uniquely creative and very theatrical - the result of fabulous design and craftsmanship. Participation by different groups in the past nine years from Central and South America, Africa, the Bahamas, Haiti, Dominican Republic and the Caribbean has continuously add dimensions


of multiculturalism


CaribFest. The Festival


Caribbean-style to


kicks-off with a moonlight


cruise


aboard the Spirit of Norfolk on the Friday before the parade and concert at Town Point Park. The roster of artists


stage is dazzling. Famous featured international


Third World, The Mighty Sparrow, Destra Garcia, Freddie


that has graced the festival’s performers such as McGregor,


Alison Hinds, Kes the Band, Dakeye, Krosfyah, Bunji Garlin, and Fay-Ann Lyons. Local artists performing at the CaribFest have included Nature’s Child, Son Quatro, Ever-G, Session Rockers, Mike Gayles & the Warrioz and many more have made the CaribFest Festival a truly international event of the highest caliber.


Each


loyal fans, from all over the country, converge in beautiful


be a part of this celebration which presents marvel


the and


opportunity appreciate


the


August, thousands of Norfolk to for us to


many visitors who journey here to enjoy music at its best. This


annual gathering has become more of a reunion – a celebration with friends, family, culture, music, and life. The festival is also an opportunity to celebrate


Norfolk’s diversity, enjoy


international foods, and multicultural crafts from around the world! Mr. Forde stated, “We look forward to the participation of the entire Hampton Roads community, our neighbors in surrounding cities, and visitors from afar. Put on your dancing shoes and get ready for the best Festival ever!”


VCACA, Inc. has a staff of ten Board Members: Michael C. Forde CEO/President; Jackie Griffith-Joseph Vice-President;


which Welch, Parliamentarian; Jeff Joseph, George Sherry-Ann Streete,


Treasurer; Pat Forde, Asst. Treasurer; Donna Mizell Secretary; Peter Jones, Public Relations; Kishawn Forbes, Asst. Public Relations;


Trustee; Carl Brathwaite, Trustee; And, approximately twenty-five general members scattered across the country. The organization is now in the process of beginning a membership recruitment campaign, creating more appealing


cultural If you unforgettable want products, to Caribbean have and


seeking prospective sponsors for the next stages of growth.


an experience,


this is the organization you would want to be associated with, and while you are at it, take the time to fully experience the Caribbean culture


at


CaribFest. Once you’ve experienced the thrill and excitement, the memory will last a lifetime. You can rest assured that VCACA, Inc. and their signature


event “CaribFest” will


continue to dazzle people of all ages, races, and backgrounds for many years to come.


www.hamptonroadsmessenger.com


The Hampton Roads Messenger 15


Participants in the parade are


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