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LAVAGEM Celebration: Dance & Procession
- Ages:
- All ages
- Cost:
- Free
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About This Program
Lavagem, meaning to wash or purify in Portuguese, is an annual reflective and renewing series of ceremonious activities that the entire community can enjoy. The 4-day Lavagem celebration is led by the Bloco Afro Ayédùn organization and is a Charlotte SHOUT! program.
The Lavagem Celebration shares, teaches, documents and archives Indigenous (Caboclos) and Brazilian Black arts culture with Charlotte communities, while cultivating a space for fellowship with dance and music workshops, cultural performances, a Lavagem procession and panel discussions.
On Friday, April 14, join us at the Gantt for the Symbology of the Orixa dance workshop with Vera Passos from 6 pm - 7:30 pm, and participate in the LAVAGEM procession festive ceremony from 7:45 pm - 9 pm - it will start at the Gantt and end at The Green Park (425 S Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202).
Everyone is encouraged to wear white to commemorate the purification and renewal. All are welcome! Comfortable shoes are highly recommended.
Note: Although all of the LAVAGEM Celebration programs are free, participation is welcomed on a first come, first serve basis for equal access. The workshops will close to additional participants when capacity is reached.
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About Bloco Afro Ayédùn
Bloco Afro Ayédùn emerged out of a pursuit to inspire and support the community, and a desire for actions to speak louder than words. Established in 2021, it is an organization driven by progressive ideas, bold actions, a strong foundation of support, and understanding of Black heritage and arts.
Ayédùn means life is sweet in the Yoruba language. A Bloco Afro is a community organization that reinforces pride in African heritage and culture through music, dance, songs, cooking, education, and more. As a Bloco Afro, they address social issues such racism, disenfranchisements in education, employment, health, and other concerns for Black and brown peoples.
Bloco Afro Ayédùn offers community workshops and is currently sponsored by a generous from the Arts & Science Council. They honor Black heritage in the Charlotte community through dance and music workshops. During the workshops, participants learn the historical and cultural contextualization of Black arts as they practice an array of movements and rhythms. They teach a variety of dances and music, starting with Samba. All dances and music have been staples of resistance and resilience in Black communities globally.
Participation in the Bloco Afro Ayédùn is free, however they ask that members contribute with their knowledge and skills. For instance, if someone works in healthcare, they would ask that member to provide a lecture on wellness and maintaining good health.
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