As part of its ongoing commitment to diversity and broad community engagement in Detroit, Wayne State University will serve as a sponsor of the 39th annual African World Festival, which will be held July 15-17 at Hart Plaza. 
Through its collaboration, WSU will offer attendees a variety of free health services as well as a wealth of information related to college admissions, financial aid, academic programming and the university’s involvement in the Detroit metro area.
“Wayne State University is always proud to support the African World Festival and to help celebrate the history and heritage that has inspired and molded so many in our community,” said Wayne State President M. Roy Wilson. “Moreover, the festival affords us yet another opportunity to honor our commitment to serve all Detroiters and to continue to improve quality of life in our city.”
WSU will once again provide its signature Health Is Wealth Pavilion, which will provide medical services that include COVID-19 vaccinations, blood work screening, blood pressure screening and testing, HIV testing, patient education, and referrals to primary care doctors and specialists. Several units and groups from throughout the university will offer resources and volunteers, including the College of Nursing, Wayne Health, the Black Medical Association and the Department of Public Health.
For the second consecutive year, Wayne Pediatrics, Midtown’s newest pediatric practice, will participate throughout the duration of the festival. Pediatric staff will engage event goers with information about the practice while also promoting the chance for families to win one of two children’s bikes, along with gift cards and other prizes.
Wayne Pediatrics provides comprehensive care to children throughout every stage of their life from birth to age 21. In addition to having pediatricians and specialists on-site, psychologists, dietitians and social workers are available to support children’s health care needs. The goal is to provide the best possible care at one convenient location.
This year marks the first time in more than a decade that the festival will be hosted at Hart Plaza, following years of being held at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History.
“Our ongoing partnership with the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History is another example of how Wayne State University builds, develops and sustains connections to the Detroit community. By supporting events like the African World Festival, Wayne State continues to have a significant impact on the cultural, economic and social life of Southeast Michigan,” said Stacie Clayton, Director of Community Affairs.
As always, the three-day festival will feature an assortment of food, more than 100 vendors and a wide range of cultural performances. Vocal sensation Cam Anthony — winner of The Voice — will open the celebration on Friday at 4 p.m. by singing “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” The Saturday lineup includes acclaimed jazz singer Lizz Wright and a performance by The Legendary Wailers, who are famous for their work with the late reggae icon Bob Marley. Detroit poet jessica Care moore and singer-songwriter Steffanie Christ’ian will cap the celebration on Sunday.
The festival is expected to draw more than 50,000 visitors over three days.
Attendance at the festival is free all weekend for Wright Museum members. The day pass for non-members is $15 for ages 13 and above, $10 for ages 4-12, and free for those younger. Tickets may be purchased at thewright.ticketing.veevartapp.com/tickets/view/list/the-wrights-african-world-festival-2022.
For more information, go to thewright.org/programs/wrights-39th-african-world-festival.