African American Festival evolved into an African diasporic stew – a blend of cultural sustainment and unity, history, ALANAA art and artist appreciation and exposure.  

Over a four - year period dance, art, and vocal interpretations of the song, Lift Every and Sing, were created by dancers, artists, youth and elderly members from the community.

The focus of the Enslaved in the Americas festival was slavery throughout the New World – North and South America. The festival featured the exhibit “Exploring the Past to Gain Insight Into the Present: Enslaved in the Americas”; cultural arts workshops and performances; history lectures and panel discussions all related to the experiences of the enslaved Africans.

Artwork by local, national and international artist were part of efforts to create an appreciation of an inclusive artistic esthetics; to expose the community to established ALANAA artists and address the need of business for a welcoming organizational and community environment for their diverse workforce.

The artwork and printing of posters was sponsored by corporations and institutions such as T. D. Bank formerly Banknorth and Worcester State University and later featured in their and other sponsors’ public spaces. Artists gave workshops at various educational organizations such as Clark University, Worcester Center for Crafts, and Bancroft School.