“We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny.” — Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Many incredible things happened in February. Chief of them all was the I HAVE A DREAM: Celebrating Black Excellence & Unity Through Poetry and Dialogue event that took place, providing a space where art, culture, and community collided in the most beautiful way.
This was more than just a poetry show. It was a movement, a sanctuary, and a moment of reflection, joy, and resistance. It was a space where African Americans, Black Caribbeans, and African immigrants and their friends came together, not just to celebrate their cultures but to recognize their shared histories and collective future.
An Afternoon of Poetry, Music, Dance, and Meaningful Dialogue
On February 8, 2024, at Busboys and Poets in Washington, D.C., we honored Black History Month and Dr. King’s dream by using poetry, storytelling, music, dance, and discussion to explore what unity looks like within the Black community in the U.S.
From the moment the event began, I found myself no longer just the host but a participant, fully immersed in the energy, words, music, and collective spirit of the room. Every performance, every conversation, and every connection reminded me why this work matters because unity is not just an ideal; it’s a practice.
The Power of Performance: Voices That Lit Up the Stage
Each artist brought something uniquely moving:
Poetry & Spoken Word – Corbin Ford, Dominique Lewis, Gbenga Adesina, Kelsey Ogbewe, Victory Osas, and I poured our hearts onto the stage, reminding us that storytelling is resistance, healing, and empowerment.
Music & Movement – Jazzo’s intoxicating vocals stilled the room while Victor Ishimwe’s piano wove emotions into every transition.
An Unexpected Cultural Moment – Sometimes, the most powerful moments are unplanned.
When the Unexpected Becomes Magic
One of the most unexpected and beautiful moments of the night came when Club Umuco, our scheduled traditional Burundian drumming dance group, was unable to make it due to unforeseen circumstances. The stage was set for their performance, and for a brief moment, there was a sense of pause, a space of uncertainty.
Then, in a moment of true improvisation, creativity, and community spirit, Victor Ishimwe stepped forward.
With grace and confidence, Victor and I transformed what could have been a gap into one of the most memorable moments of the event. Instead of simply moving on, I invited the audience into the experience, turning what was supposed to be a performance for the people into a dance with the people led by Victor.
“Alright, let me show you all how we do the traditional Rwandese dance,” he said, stepping into the center of the room.
And just like that, the space was alive. The audience didn’t just watch, we moved together. Laughter echoed through the venue as people stepped forward, swayed, and found themselves part of something much bigger than just a performance. It was a lesson in adaptability, in joy, and in the power of stepping in when needed.
Victor embodied what this event was about: community, resilience, and the beauty of culture being shared in real time.
Beyond the Mic: A Conversation on Unity & Solidarity
In addition to the performances, we engaged in a powerful panel discussion on Building Bridges Between African Americans, Black Caribbeans, and African Immigrants.
Moderated by Taylor Lowe (Ubumwe) and myself, the conversation tackled the following:
The shared history of Black communities in the U.S.
Overcoming divisions and fostering unity
How art and storytelling create lasting change
Panelists, including Corbin Ford, Dominique Lewis, Gbenga Adesina, Kelsey Ogbewe, Victor Ishimwe, and Victory Osas, shared perspectives that were raw, honest, and deeply resonant.
The audience’s engagement made it clear: this conversation is needed, and it must continue.
A Space of Healing, Reflection, and Hope
More than just an event, I HAVE A DREAM became a space for people to feel seen, heard, and connected. Many attendees shared with me how much they needed this experience, how it offered joy, healing, and an opportunity to reflect on what unity truly means.
One person shared,
“This event was more than a show, it was a safe mental break, a needed escape. My heart is full.”
Another said,
“The energy in the room was different; it felt like home. A space where we could truly be.”
A Heart Full of Gratitude
To everyone who performed, attended, and supported this vision, I am deeply grateful. Your presence and passion made this event the success that it was.
To Ubumwe, our incredible partner, thank you for being a part of this movement.
To the audience, your energy, engagement, and openness fueled this space and made it what it was.
The Journey Continues
This event was just the beginning. There is still so much work to be done to strengthen unity across Black communities globally. And as Dr. King’s dream reminds us, change begins with us.
So, will you join me on this journey?
🎥 Watch the event recap here: https://youtu.be/SZgIZiRYKPs
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Yours in Third Culture Kid Affairs,
Bertha Nibigira
