On March 9, 2013, the 1st Annual Black Love Comedy Jam brought out the laughter of nearly 100 people, which echoed throughout Akwaaba Hall in St. Petersburg, FL.
Featuring several comedians, the duties of the Master of Ceremony was shared between John X and Goop Man, two known regional artists.
The event was a mix of classy and casual.
In the midst of the black and white décor of Akwaaba Hall were tables covered in black linen, loaded with assorted flavored chicken wings and sweet potato French fries.
“We decided to do the Black Love Comedy Jam, because Black Love needs to happen all time, not just on Valentines Day, “ said Princess Williams. Williams is the program manager at the African People’s Education and Defense Fund (APEDF) based in St. Petersburg, FL. “Laughter brings people together. Africans and whites, rich and poor, young and old, “ said Williams.
Events like this are a fundraising apparatus for the APEDF, an organization whose mission is to defend the Human and Civil Rights of the African Community and to address the grave disparities in education, health and economic development.
Earlier this year, APEDF hosted, St. Pete’s Kids Got Talent, which showcased the artistic talent of the youth.
The event was well attended and established that the community would support programming at the Akwaaba Hall.
“Community focused programming help us move forward with creating and sustaining programs like the Kids Fit camp, the Free HIV clinic and health seminars, “ said Williams.
The community focused programming allows Africans and their allies to contribute directly to the APEDF, which will develop the economic and social programs that will uplift and empower Africans as a nation.
One Africa!! One Nation!!
