COMMUNITY FESTIVALS- LAS VEGAS

100MenSchoolEbibimanLasVegasWdccFundRaising
"Experience the vibrant rhythms and cultural richness of Africa and beyond in this captivating 3-in-1 video!
Segment 1: "Meet Harold"
Get introduced to the talented Harold D. Akyeampong, a renowned African Performing Arts Specialist, as he showcases his impressive drumming skills and shares his passion for African music and culture.
Segment 2: "Libation Ceremony: A Taste of Ghana in Las Vegas"
Ebibiman is a Ghanaian word for "Africa". In this segment, is a special death ritual ceremony in Ghana that is being practiced and presented to the community leaders of West Las Vegas aka Ebibiman Las Vegas. This is a formal announcement to the Elders and leaders when my father who is a chief passed away in Ghana, West Africa in 2020.
Death of important people such as chiefs has to be announced in a special way following certain Ghanaian royal protocols. It is such I repricated here as a way of teaching in immersion.
African libation ritual is a profound cultural practice that holds deep spiritual and symbolic meaning. In Ghana, libation is a traditional ritual where a liquid, usually water, palm wine, or schnapps, is poured onto the ground as an offering to the ancestors, gods, and spirits. This ritual is an essential part of Ghanaian culture and is performed during various occasions, including funerals, ceremonies, and ancestor veneration. The significance of African libation ritual extends beyond its cultural context, offering a powerful means of reconnecting with ancestral heritage, honoring ancestors and elders, and fostering spiritual growth and connection.
In Ghana, libation is poured for several reasons, including to honor the ancestors, seek blessings and protection, and communicate with the spirits. When an elder dies, libation is poured to honor their memory, seek their blessing, and ensure their safe passage to the afterlife. This ritual is a testament to the importance of ancestor veneration in Ghanaian culture, where the ancestors are believed to continue playing an active role in the lives of their descendants.
The presentation of African libation ritual to African Americans offers a unique opportunity for cultural reconnection and spiritual growth. By embracing this ritual, African Americans can deepen their understanding of their cultural heritage and strengthen their connection to their ancestors and community. Libation provides a meaningful way to honor ancestors and elders, who have played a significant role in shaping African American culture and identity.
Moreover, African libation ritual offers a powerful means of fostering spiritual growth and connection. By communicating with their ancestors and seeking their guidance, protection, and wisdom, African Americans can cultivate a deeper sense of spirituality and connection to their cultural heritage. This ritual also provides a means of healing and reconciliation, allowing individuals to confront and resolve historical traumas and injustices.
Segment 3: "Drumming for Ukraine: A Fundraising Event"
In this final segment, Harold brings together his love of music and his commitment to social causes as he participates in a fundraising event for Ukraine. Watch as he performs an energetic drumming set with his group , ImPact Afrikana , inspiring unity and support for those affected by conflict.