Africa in America: Music, Dance, & Culture

Fifteen years ago, Founder/CEO Kara Mack made a strategic and radical decision to focus on music and dance styles from the African Diaspora after years of classical training in both respective fields. As she began to practice these different art forms she recognized that in society these styles are seen as electives and hobbies artistically that in turn force them to fall short of being respected as technical styles. Kara wanted to change this reality and decided to create the trademarked brand, Africa in America in 2014; a brand that serves as a primary resource for both professionals and participants of African Diasporic music, dance, arts and culture in America. Since African-based arts have held a huge part in social justice we produce content celebrating the rich history of Africa including, but not limited to online magazines, an annual original works showcase, hosting master music and dance classes and keeping our audience aware of community and organization building, grant and work opportunities, and many other ways that may inspire art, locally and nationally. Studies have shown that to be born Black is subconsciously deemed as a curse, not just in America, but all over the world.  As a person born of African descent no matter if you speak English, Spanish, Portuguese, French, or any African dialect there is an underlying insecurity directly related to the feeling of invisibility that has now consumed the Black community in America. Through Kara Mack's work, she is determined to change the direction and rewrite the narrative. Music and dance has been a catalyst in changing such perceptions, but it has only been through Black people adapting to styles that have been cultivated or created by Europeans. She utilizes a language, vocabulary, and rhetoric that is relatable in order to bring back a sense of visibility that will cultivate well-rounded artists capable of succeeding through any artistic expression they choose.