7 JUNE IN the United States is Caribbean American Heritage Month and, in the nation’s capital, there will be a unique celebration on June 28 when the historic Woodrow Wilson House and Museum transforms into a vibrant hub for Caribbean American culture with PinexGinja’s art series ‘We De Ya IV’. The event is expected to highlight the contributions of the District’s 8,000-strong Caribbean American community with organisers aiming to create a space for cultural exchange, fostering understanding and appreciation for the rich tapestry woven by Caribbean Americans in DC. Spearheading the project is the PinexGinja team, known for their creative fusion of Caribbean and West African influences. With more than six years of experience crafting international events, PinexGinja promised a highimpact celebration while indicating that attendees can expect meticulously curated exhibits showcasing Caribbean American history and heritage. A MULTI-SENSORY EXPERIENCE According to the organisers, the Caribbean American Museum Takeover goes beyond static displays as a panel discussion aimed at provoking thought will delve deeper into the experiences of Caribbean Americans in DC, fostering dialogue and understanding. Performance art will also be on display, hoping to captivate audiences and igniting a deeper connection with Caribbean cultural expression. The organisers further emphasised the educational aspect of the event. Through interactive elements and scholarly contributions, the Museum Takeover aims to educate Washingtonians about the historical and ongoing impact of Caribbean Americans on the city’s social and cultural fabric. This effort not only celebrates diversity but also underscores the importance of building bridges between communities. The passion project finds its roots in the desire to empower Caribbean Americans and elevate their voices. Led by seasoned journalist and cultural curator, Mark Beckford, the initiative seeks to foster dialogue, understanding, and unity within DC. “This event is more than just a celebration; it’s an opportunity to bridge the gap between the Caribbean American community and DC. We want to showcase the vibrant history and ongoing contributions of Caribbean Americans, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for their rich cultural heritage,” said Beckford. This groundbreaking event promises to be an enriching experience, offering attendees a unique perspective on the enduring legacy and vibrant contributions of Caribbean Americans in the nation’s capital. The Caribbean American Museum Takeover is fuelled by a grant from HumanitiesDC and is also sponsored by shipping company Caribbean Cargo DC and Above Prestige PR. Sophia Findlay/Gleaner Writer TORONTO: IN AN industry where women must fight for a seat at the table, especially those with a conscious message, reggae singer and promoter Jah Beng is doing all he can to change the narrative. To this end, he has invited international reggae songstress Queen Omega for the Reggae Royals Blazin’ Concert, slated for July 12, in Pickering, Ontario. Known for her distinctive and commanding presence in the world reggae music scene globally, Queen Omega is armed with her electrifying No Love Dubplate, and is ready to seize the spotlight once again. In a brief telephone interview with The Gleaner, Jah Beng said his aim with the concert line-up is to show the strength, perseverance and power of the female. The list also includes another impressive reggae/dancehall female artiste, Canada-based Empress Divine. “The ‘Reggae Royals Blazin’ concert celebrates the powerful and talented Queen Omega, along with some excellent Canadian artistes. It is also intended to reaffirm the entertainment value and global impact of conscious/ Roots Reggae music as the industry does its best to fade this genre,” stated Jah Beng, who is also billed for the show. “We want to remind people that there are artistes out there still pushing, and that consciousness is still alive, and the message is that we’re still here.” ILLUSTRIOUS CAREER Last summer, Queen Omega joined forces with Little Lion Sound to create a global sensation with their dubplate rendition on the iconic. ‘Next Episode’ riddim. The track has garnered over 120 million streams across social media platforms, earning praise from icons like Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre. Now available on all major platforms under the Sony Music label, this collaboration marks another milestone in Queen Omega’s illustrious career. In fact, that same year, after a decadelong hiatus, she returned with her album, ‘Freedom Legacy’, released last March, under Baco Records. This deeply introspective offering showcases Queen Omega’s diverse musical influences and authentic storytelling. Through poignant lyrics, she addresses themes of freedom, independence, and the human condition, leaving behind a musical legacy for her fans and her children. Hailing from San Fernando, Trinidad, Queen Omega’s musical journey began at age nine years, performing in local talent shows and eventually making her mark on the national stage, with the encouragement of her mother. She wrote her own calypsos and even did rap on national television then. Influenced by her upbringing in a musical family and inspired by artistes ranging from reggae legends to soul divas, the Rastafarian Queen Omega’s unique sound has resonated with her listeners worldwide. Consistently honing her craft, she made her début on the Jamaican stage in the early 2000s. Since then, she has solidified her place in roots reggae history as an icon, collaborating with esteemed artistes, such as Sizzla, Buju Banton,Yaniss Odua, Julian Marley, Marcus Gad and Soom T - releasing a string of hits that have captivated audiences across generations. Onstage, she blends reggae, Caribbean, jazz, and soul influences, with her vocal prowess and magnetic presence with The Royal Souls Band. With an extensive touring history spanning continents and festivals, Queen Omega continues to enchant audiences with her authenticity and energy. With themes of unity, love, and empowerment, Queen Omega, with Jah Beng, Empress Divine, and Ev, the Soulman, alongside The Royal Souls Band and Toronto’s Hardcore Band, are expected to deliver performances to depict liberation, self-determination and justice, at the Diamond Lounge in Pickering. Caribbean Heritage to be celebrated with Museum Takeover in Washington, DC A patron stands beside a piece at We De Ya III: Heroes held in Washington D.C. in November, 2023. CONTRIBUTED Queen Omega brings the heat for summer in Canada Jah Beng Queen Omega CONTRIBUTED THE MONTHLY GLEANER | JUNE 13 - JULY 13, 2024 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | NEWS
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