La Vida Yaya

Everyday is a day to learn about Black history and culture. I don't think you can realistically separate it from "American" culture, but alas, I think it continues to be of importance despite the progress we've made to be colorblind. We still need to be mindful of how every culture, every person, and every region contributes to society and how it affects-- and is very much a part of-- our daily lives. Perhaps the best way to pay homage to the Black community's contributions is to spotlight things that are already out there to do in and around LA that will expand your knowledge of African American history and culture. You don't need a specific festival or event in February to learn about it although you can find them and participate this month and year round. Check out these links below and create your own learning experience. Mayme A. Clayton Library and Museum: http://www.claytonmuseum.org/ St. Elmo's Artist Village: http://www.stelmovillage.org/ The ...

Oh yes, it is about time! Here is a new exhibit at the Huntington in collaboration with an organization I've known about for a few years now, the Mayme A. Clayton Library and soon-to-be museum. Their mission is to collect, preserve; exhibit and celebrate the unique history and cultural heritage of Americans of African descent and thereby help to provide a more complete view of American history. Mayme's son, Avery, has led the effort to realize this dream of opening up a museum. The collection is vast and contains unique items that will most-definitely enrich our lives. When is the last time there was a retrospective on the west coast African American Renaissance? It wasn't Harlem, but it was Central Avenue. I can't wait to hear about the music and night life that went on back in those days. The art and literature I would assume laid the foundation for a lot of what we see now. It will be fun making those connections. Save the date. The exhibit opens October 24. Admissio...