Traditional African Clothing, Craft and Adornment at Celebrate Erie
Fatima Athow and Afaf Kormouna will give temporary henna tattoos. While henna from South Asia is often delicate and ornate, Sudanese henna is bolder and rhythmic. Fatima and Afaf say, “Henna is for happiness and celebration. Henna is how we stay connected to our Sudanese culture. All Sudanese people know henna. Everyone who sees henna loves it, even Americans.” Women, children, and men are welcome to wear one of their creations. 
Ansumana Komba Gbembo will sell custom made clothing. Anyone can stop by his booth, choose fabric from his inventory, and he will create a shirt or dress on the spot. He recommends stopping by his tent first, “I’ll be doing sewing live. They can come, place an order, and get measured. When they are ready to leave the festival, they can pick it up!” People can also purchase a handmade dog coat featuring African fabric. In the same tent Emina Lokole will sell African crafts. He imports handmade jewelry, clothing, masks from Congo, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Kenya. Emina says, “Come see our African traditional craft. It shows our history and culture. We had powerful kingdoms and this art reminds us of that.” 
Celebrate Erie is run by the Mayor’s Office and is a three day celebration of Erie food, art, and music. The Family Stage is on East Perry Square just south of the fountain.
Both presentations are possible through support from
