Growing up in Los Angeles with a Nigerian father, I was exposed to a rich cultural heritage through the monthly meetings of Nigerian communities in Southern California. These gatherings served as a way to organize, build community, and pass on traditions to the next generation. While the men engaged in business discussions, the women cooked, and the children played, these events provided an opportunity for me to connect with other kids from similar cultural backgrounds.
One particular memory that stands out is a dance performance at a banquet. Although the details of the performance itself are blurry, the rehearsals left a lasting impression. Learning the dance routine, with its specific movements and synchronized steps, was a unique experience. One element that stood out was the use of a napkin as a prop in the routine, adding an extra layer of cultural significance to the performance.
Unexpected Skills
Little did I know that years later, those dance skills, particularly the art of napkin-sweeping, would come in handy during a drum and dance circle in the village of Dumbutu in the Gambia. While on a river cruise with Variety Cruises, I found myself participating in a cultural exchange that bridged my Nigerian heritage with the traditions of the Gambian community. The unexpected connection between these two cultures highlighted the universal language of music and dance.
Arriving in Dumbutu, a village near Kiang West National Park, I was greeted by the local women with a drum and dance circle. Despite being strangers in a foreign land, the shared experience of music and movement created an instant bond between us. The energy and enthusiasm of the gathering were reminiscent of the Nigerian banquets of my childhood, reinforcing the idea that cultural traditions have the power to bring people together, no matter where they come from.
As I joined in the dance, clapping, stomping, and sweeping along with the women of Dumbutu, I felt a sense of connection that transcended language and geography. The universal appeal of music and dance allowed me to communicate and share in a cultural experience that resonated with me on a personal level. It was a moment of unity and celebration, bridging the gap between generations and continents.
Embracing Cultural Heritage
Reflecting on my journey from Nigerian banquets to Gambian drum circles, I am reminded of the importance of embracing and celebrating cultural heritage. The exchange of traditions and customs between different communities serves as a reminder of our shared humanity and the beauty of diversity. By participating in these cultural exchanges, we not only honor our past but also build connections that transcend borders and boundaries. In a world that is often divided by differences, music and dance have the power to unite us in a celebration of our shared humanity.
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