Acclaimed Female Artists, Cultural Workers, and Harlem Elected Speak on “The Art of Being a Woman”

NYC Council Speaker Melissa Mark Viverito, NYC Councilmember Laurie Cumbo, Visual Artist Xenobia Bailey, and Traditional Yoruba Arpon Amma McKenn

Women of African descent are integral to global creative vision, international cultural output, and inspirational artistic conversation. Join the Caribbean Cultural Center African Diaspora Institute in honoring and examining the experiences of a wide range of established women, in the cultural arts, politics, and public service work. The program, featuring many innovators, including New York City Council Speaker and Harlem City Councilperson Melissa Mark Viverito, visual artist Marilyn Nance, and curator-dancer Rashida Bumbray, takes place on Saturday, March 15^th, from 10AM to 6PM (with a closing reception until 7PM) at the Julia de Burgos Latino Cultural Center (1680 Lexington Avenue, between 105th and 106th Street), and is open to the public with tickets available in advance and at the door.

In its 27^th year, the program continues to consider the role and impact of African Diaspora women in various sectors and through multiple lenses. Seasoned and emerging artists will discuss their unique experiences along with art administrators and policy makers, exploring their interdependent roles in establishing greater cultural equity, broader cultural opportunity, and meaningful social justice.

“Women are creativity in motion,” says Dr. Marta Moreno Vega, president and founder of CCCADI. “This year’s conference highlights the multiplicity of avenues that women have incorporated to celebrate themselves and honor our communities.”

From the preparedness tools needed for self-empowerment, to the risk and courage in creating new pathways to motivate innovative work, to the art of self-determination, this inspiring event will bring forth dialogue from the hearts and minds of women who strive for excellence and manifest greatness through their perseverance, strength, and talent. Guest speakers include human rights activist Monifa Bandele, salsa singer and orchestra leader Cita Rodriguez, New York City Councilwoman Laurie Cumbo, Commissioner Rosemonde Pierre-Louis, NYS president of NOW Zenaida Mendez, among others.

To purchase tickets, visit: www.wopconference2014.eventbrite.com

At the Julia de Burgos Cultural Center in El Barrio/East Harlem, located at 1680 Lexington Avenue, between 105^th and 106^th Street.