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Annual event serves to bring people together
By ELISE McKEOWN SKOLNICK
YOUNGSTOWN
People seeking items centered on African culture needed to go no farther than Youngstown State University.
The African Marketplace in the Chestnut Room of Kilcawley Center offered Afrocentric art, jewelry, clothes, books and more from a variety of vendors.
Amber Bullock of Youngstown is a regular attendee.
“It’s worth coming every year because you learn different things and then you learn about the African culture,” she said.
She sees items she doesn’t typically, such as clothing. Frequently, people need to leave the area to find clothing and jewelry similar to that offered at the Marketplace, she said.
“It’s good they actually do this every year,” Bullock said.
The event Saturday was part of YSU’s celebration of Black History Month.
Ina Madison, an independent vendor from Youngstown, participated for the seventh year.
“I love it,” she said. “I love the people, and I love everything about it.”
She sold costume jewelry as well as aprons and potholders she made by hand using Afrocentric material.
The event shows unity among people, she said.
“There’s a cohesiveness here,” she added. “It’s showing that our very diverse area here has everyone. And it’s unity of people, of Americans. Although we’re from different backgrounds and different cultures, it just shows that Youngstown is very diverse.”
Born and reared in Youngstown, Madison grew up with Greek, Italian, Polish and Puerto Rican neighbors.
Christol Brown of Warren attended to look at the original, ethnic pieces and enjoy the music.
Harambee of Youngs-town performed traditional African dances and music during the event.
This was Brown’s first time at the African Marketplace.
“I love it,” she said. “I’m enjoying the music, enjoying the dance, and enjoying some of the artwork and pieces that they have here.”
She was looking for jewelry for her daughter and African art pieces for her home.