Growing up in the 1950s, Kariamu Welsh learned to “catch the beat” jumping double dutch with friends. As a young adult, inspired by the Black Arts Movement, she was very aware of racism within the arts.
Studying African diasporic dance in New York, Jamaica, and throughout Africa, Welsh found that these dances, though different, were related.
Our ancestors survived generations of enslavement and colonization, all the while passing down movements and rhythms that naturally evolved over time.
Wanting to preserve the essence of these movements, Welsh established a dance technique called Umfundalai. Umfundalai is a Kiswahili word meaning, “essential.”
Over time, Umfundalai grew an international following. Welsh became a cherished teacher and scholar.
Welsh passed away in October 2021, but her legacy lives on through the National Association of American African Dance Teachers, who are dedicated to continue teaching Umfundalai.
Black creative genius is constantly denied, whitewashed, appropriated, and erased. Welsh knew this all too well.
“Daring to be,” she said, “is a position that one has to take throughout life.” Like Welsh, we must determine our own worth, listen to our calling, and dare to be. How are you tuned in to you true calling?