We’re in the home stretch. Richmond marks the end of the first half of the We Are Africa Road Tour. The good news? We get to sleep in our own beds tonight. The bad news? Not many Cracker Barrels going north.

A great crowd turned out for our Richmond event. Drumming, dancing, and knowledge all made for a good time for everyone. Dr. Maureen Elgersman-Lee looked to Delegate Delores McQuinn for emotional support as we revealed her Mandinka roots.

Waiting for the Reveal

Delegate McQuinn’s family was excited to learn of their Nigerian roots.

Nigeria!

Speaking of family, Kea’s family came out to support the Tour and I Still Do. She was really glad to see them.

Prathers and Taylors from Luisa County

I must admit that the highlight of the day was little Nana Sekou. He stole the show from beginning to end. I need to bottle his energy for the rest of the Tour! Click here to see more images from Richmond.

Still not Tired!

Energy for Days!

Nana Draws a Winner

Yep. We’re taking We Are Africa to the capital of the Commonwealth of Virginia! Many know Richmond as the birthplace of Black Capitalism. But did you know that Richmond was the largest source of enslaved Africans on the east coast of America from 1830 to 1860? This part of the city’s history is documented along the Richmond Slave Trail, a walking trail that chronicles the history of the trade of enslaved Africans from Africa to Virginia until 1775, and away from Virginia to other locations in the Americas until 1865. (source: www.virginia.org) 

African Ancestry Family Member Dr. Shawn Utsey has made sure that Richmond is well represented on the We Are Africa Road Tour 2010.

Virginia Commonwealth University’s Department of African American Studies,

the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia, and the Library of Virginia will co-host the Road Tour. We are also honored to have the African Connection Network on board to help provide a diverse perspective.

Franklin Military Academy

701 North 37th Street

Richmond, VA 23223

August 8, 2010

4 – 6 pm

Join us for an engaging afternoon with an African Ancestry presentation, performance by Elegba Folklore Society, and heritage reveals of Virginia State Delegate Delores McQuinn and Dr. Maureen Elgersman Lee.

Virginia State Delegate Delores McQuinn

Dr. Maureen Elgersman Lee, Director, Black History Museum and Cultural Center of VA

Don’t forget! Bring your friends and family! And tell those who can’t make it to follow us here on the blog or on Facebook.