Foods That Bind - Critical & Unifying Conversations Between People of Black Heritage

This series will begin on the 5th of August, 2023.

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These conversations will take the form of a cohort system that meets on the last Saturday of each month, for 3 hours over 5 sessions. Our conversations will be had over food that reflects our diversity & commonality - African American, African, Afro-Caribbean, and Afro-Latino cuisines in a 3 course meal. Part of the cohort experience will include an immersion in one of many options including: a visit to an African American, African or African Caribbean museum or site of cultural/historical significance, attendance of a cultural festivity of note, or participation in a planned trip to one of the other countries represented.

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The cohorts will bring together leaders and community members from diverse African backgrounds to learn from each other, build relationships and take their experiences back to their communities.

The kickoff for the first cohort is 5th of August and meet once a month every last Saturday of the month for 5 sessions. Applications will be accepted till July 18th.

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If you are interested or know anyone who is interested within your organization and outside please send them this interest form below to sign up or send us their contact information.

Participation confirmation in the upcoming cohort, will be sent out by July 20th. Acceptance confirmation into the cohort will be expected by July 25th.​

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At the ACN, we believe wholeheartedly that bridge-building is a fundamental way of amplifying our diverse black voices but we are also cognizant that bridge-building is most effective if done with our partners and allies in community. Please help where ever and however you can in making this vision a reality.

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We look forward to partnering with you.

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About Us:

The African Collaborative Network (ACN), an African-led non-profit organization that advocates for African refugees and immigrants in West Michigan. We are an African collaborative, purposely engaging in advocacy, dialogues and partnerships to provide access to resources and opportunities for the African community within the West Michigan area.

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We want to see a united and engaged African community as empowered stakeholders, contributing to cultural, social, and economic development.

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We leverage trusted networks within the African immigrant community, to advocate for, and improve outcomes for these communities within West Michigan.

Our pillars are Advocacy, Education, Economic Empowerment, and Unity/Collaboration.

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Reuben N:

"The ACN has launched a series called "Foods that Bind" to bring Africans and African-Americans, in Grand Rapids, MI, together for some insightful discussions, teachable moments, tough debates, and respectful disagreements. The things that we have in common are just what we have in common and there is no growth. However, it is the challenging areas in which we have diametrically different perspectives, it is at those moments, we have opportunities to strengthen our relationships.

"Eat when the food is ready. Speak when the time is right"

- Ethiopian Proverb"

Contact:

info@africancollaborativenetwork.com

616 577 8575

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​Signup: https://forms.gle/jQCfLTDeLC3JETBBA

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