On Sept. 11, people gathered to shop from local vendors, try the wide assortments of food and listen to live music at the Umoja Festival, which celebrated its twenty-fourth year.
The festival began this year with a tribute to the victims of 9/11 given by ETSU and Johnson City’s Chief of Police. The tribute was followed by the annual Calling of the Drums performance, a traditional African drum circle that is enjoyed by spectators every year. Many booths were featured at the festival, such as games and activities for children, face painting, local artisans, arts and crafts and clothing.
The Umoja Festival celebrates the unity of different cultures and heritages, welcoming anyone who walks by this year and in the years to come.
One attendant to the festival, who wished to remain anonymous, comes to the festival every year and stated, “I love the food, and the African clothing for sale. I also love the music and atmosphere, but overall, I enjoy the unity and openness from all of the people.”
Many others come for these reasons, and it is what makes them return every year.
The Umoja Festival is well-known for its music, and this year featured several genres and performers. Just some of the music performed included jazz, Latin American and rhythm and blues. Many people who attended the festival set up lawn chairs and picnics in the grass area to enjoy the performances, and with it being in the heart of downtown, several people walking by decided to join as well.
The festival transitioned from daytime into evening with more live music and ended with a fan favorite, the Plunky and Oneness Band, an American Jazz musical group. They performed saxophone music, jazz and R&B for those who attended the night portion of the festival.
The Umoja Festival will return to Johnson City next year, promising even more music and activities for those who wish to attend, but most of all seeking their overall goal of unity and acceptance.
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