The IAM is a celebratory series of events and activities of cultural diversity representing the African Diaspora and its cultural influences worldwide. What began as a promotional tour around the San Francisco Bay Area to develop ethnic outreach to San Francisco artisans and small businesses for their participation has now turned into the “crown jewel” of the Hunters Point Shipyard redevelopment project. This fall, the marketplace was held over three weekends and served as a venue for all cultures of the African Diaspora and as a rallying point for coordinating resources in the African American business, social service and art community. It further serves as a cultural destination for tourists and residents.
By presenting global goods and wares of the African Diaspora, local vendors will recreate a cultural destination within the Bayview-Hunters Point community that illuminates the range, depth and diversity of the African American experience. This extraordinary event includes the finest World music, jazz, and rhythm and blues performers, from Brasil Brasil to Pete Escovedo and Kotoja to the African Highlife Band. Children's activities include mask making, mural painting and t-shirt design, while adults can attend and learn African, step, salsa dancing and hair braiding at the free classes offered.
Alton Byrd
IAM Manager
(415) 647-3728, ext. 404
or visit, www.BVHPafricanmarketplace.org
