On Wednesday March 6, the Montgomery County Community College African-American Student League presented the 25th Annual Pan African Festival. Held in College Hall, the event celebrated culture and history through this year’s theme of Truth and Justice. The ASL first began the Pan-African Festival to recognize the contributions of Malcolm X as well as those of the African Diaspora, meaning where Africans are from throughout the world.

Students and members of the community were able to browse exhibits detailing the stories of African people from ancient history to modern day. The festival also featured a collection of paintings known as “The Wall of Heroes” painted by Ruth Jordan. As the crowd explored the cultural pieces, they were treated to live music courtesy of Royce and Company.

After the band finished playing, Israel Harding, ASL President, welcomed the audience to join in the celebration. Mistress of Events and ASL member Esther Fakiyesi called upon “the oldest member of the audience” to give permission to formally begin the event. Harding and Fakiyesi were then joined by ASL member Anthony Scott, ASL Secretary Allana Mathis to lead the crowd in singing “Lift Every Voice and Sing.”

Fakiyesi was honored to be a part of the festival and was excited for the guests to experience the exhibits and presentations.

“This is my second year with the ASL, and I have come to really love the Pan African Festival,” Fakiyesi said. “I love watching the students and guests interact with the displays and learn about the important moments in African-American History.”

The audience was treated to cultural delicacies such as African beef stew and fried chicken. As the audience ate, presentations continued in the front of the room. ASL Advisor Tony Davis, Middle School Student Abigail Woodard and ASL member Anthony Scott discussed and showcased African culture and history. After the presentations, audience members were invited to share their perspectives and experiences with the crowd.

Fakiyesi enjoyed the event and hoped that students from all backgrounds could learn from the festival.

“This festival benefits not only people that look like me, who are African American, but I believe it has also benefited those who look nothing like me, and it was amazing to see that effect,” Fakiyesi reflected.