Please join us celebrating Emancipation day in Canada (August 1st) we present to you a drumming workshop with BABARINDE. In African culture, drumming and story-telling are part of the celebration of life, most especially its cycles and seasons This entertaining program uses the African cultural arts of interactive story-telling, Dance and hand drumming to teach and motivate children. The audience participates actively in simple call and response songs, this includes drumming rhythm and dance.

On March 24, 2021, the House of Commons voted unanimously to officially designate August 1 Emancipation Day. It marks the actual day in 1834 that the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833 came into effect across the British Empire. Canadians are not always aware that Black and Indigenous Peoples were once enslaved on the land that is now Canada. Those who fought enslavement were pivotal in shaping our society to be as diverse as it is today. Therefore, each August 1, Canadians are invited to reflect, educate and engage in the ongoing fight against anti-Black racism and discrimination. Emancipation Day celebrates the strength and perseverance of Black communities in Canada.

About Facilitator

"BABARINDE "Baba" Williams Drummer and multi-instrumentalist, BABARINDE Williams “Baba” is the founder and CEO of Drums et al. He was born in the coastal city of Ebute-Metta (literally translated: 3 shores) one of the satellite cities that make up the mega city of Lagos, Africa’s equivalent of New York City. He was recognized as a drumming prodigy at a very tender age and started performing with local, recreational, amateur and semi-professional group in his neighborhoods.

Baba has played in a variety of environments. He has featured as djembe soloist at different concerts and productions. He has also been involved in Theater, chorales, and studio recordings across 3 continents of the world.

For two decades he has been a positive force in the drumming community of Ontario. He is regarded as one of Canada’s most prolific and respected drumming instructors and has facilitated numerous workshops in and around his home province of Ontario.

Baba has received honours and awards from leading community and political figures from Premiers to councillors and the list keeps growing. He has used his knowledge and skills to assist the challenged and underprivileged. He has been described as a selfless and dedicated cultural ambassador and a respected representative of the African community. He spends time at risk youths and has also given his time and effort to improve the lots of the less privileged."

For more information about Babarinde check out his website: Drums Etal - Drumming, Drumming, Music, African 

The Drumming Workshop will be held in the: Reading Lounge on the main floor.