HAMPTON—On Saturday, August 21 at 11am, the Fort Monroe Authority, National Park Service, Project 1619, and the City of Hampton will hold the 1619 Commemoration of the First Enslaved African Landing with a program and concert. The gathering will reflect on the national and global significance of the African landing and the contributions of Africans and their descendants to American society. Throughout the day, speakers will explore themes of origins, identity, and freedom.
At 11am, featured keynote speaker, author, emcee, and producer Kris Parker, also known as KRS-One (Knowledge Reigns Supreme Over Nearly Everyone), will provide remarks. The program will also include a libation ceremony and African dance and drum performances. At noon, there will be a National Bell Ringing Ceremony to remember the first enslaved Africans and honor 402 years of African American history.
At 1:30pm, The Evolution of Freedom concert will be held, featuring trombonist, composer, and producer Delfeayo Marsalis. Immediately following the concert, Marsalis and KRS-One will hold a talk back session continuing the discussion of concepts of freedom. The program and concert are free and open to the public. The program will be live streamed on the Fort Monroe at Old Point Comfort Facebook and YouTube sites. For additional information, interested parties can visit https://fortmonroe.org/.