This February, the YMI Cultural Center warmly invites you to celebrate Black History Month and participate in the grand reopening of its newly renovated historic center.
Under the new leadership of its executive director Sean Palmer, it embark on a new chapter filled with vibrant events that embody the spirit of TERANGA — radical hospitality. Like returning to a beloved grandmother’s cozy living room, they’re opening their doors wide to share stories, laughter, and learning.
Upcoming Events:
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February 12: The YMI’s 135th Birthday Party – ‘Choir Practice with the Community’
Join us as we celebrate another milestone, marking the 132nd birthday of the YMI. We return to our roots, as Black folks are known to have Bible study and choir practice on Wednesday nights across the south. Join us for ‘Choir Practice with the Community,’ where every voice adds a note to our harmonious legacy. Come gather in the YMI Gallery, then re-learn popular Gospel classics, and enjoy some cake and church punch too. -
February 27: A YMI & RSAA Black History Program Collaboration – “Your Labor Was Not In Vain”
Spend the morning with us as we consider the Labor Movements in the African American experience. This is the national theme for the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, formed under the father of Black History Month, Carter G. Woodson. Come gather as we discuss the histories of the past, the successes we currently enjoy, and the challenges ahead in a brunch conversation that seeks to build community. -
February 27: Grand Re-Opening & Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony
In the afternoon, step through the doorway of our renovated spaces, where each room invites a new possibility, echoing the voices of our community leaders and board members. Join us as we open the doors of our space after a period of semi-dormancy and a 5 year renovation…join us for our programming year, “…and be warm”. -
February 28: YMI Honors Gala
We wrap up Black History Month by setting the table for a night of appreciation, celebration, and acknowledgment, recognizing those who’ve steered our journey with their loving guidance and support. We also introduce our new Kujichagulia Organizations-in-Residence Program, our Kuumba Artists-in-Residence, and a few other surprises. Secure your ticket in advance!
Looking Ahead: YMI’s 2025 Programming
Drawing inspiration from Nikki Giovanni’s warm reflections on familial ties, this year’s programming is a rich stew simmering with opportunities for engagement, wellness, and creativity:
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Ujima Health & Wellness Projects: Like the rhythmic pulse of a heart, these activities—ranging from yoga to line dancing—strengthen our collective physical and mental health.
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Kujichagulia Organization in Residence: This initiative plants the seeds for Black organizations to grow, providing them the soil and sunlight of regular meeting spaces and developmental workshops.
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Pop-Up Programming: Each month, our Salons A & B transform into a marketplace of ideas and expressions, where cultural dialogues flourish like vibrant market stalls.
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Kuumba Artist in Residence Program: Celebrating creativity, this program turns the spotlight on artists, allowing their works to paint the canvases of our community’s imagination.
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Banjul – Banjo Music Series: Echoing the strings of history, this series traces the melodies from the shores of Africa to the heart of Appalachia, each note a footprint in our shared musical heritage.
We invite our communities—local, regional, and national—to join us in these enriching experiences. Let us gather as often as we can, sharing the warmth of our hospitality and the joy of our culture.
And, Explore the Newly Upgraded Facilities
The YMI Cultural Center is excited to reveal its recent renovations, enhancing our venue with a modernized auditorium, an upgraded gallery, and versatile new spaces like a state-of-the-art conference room and flexible classrooms. Perfect for hosting both public and private events, our facility is equipped to support a range of activities from business meetings to cultural celebrations.
We gratefully acknowledge our sponsors—Buncombe County, Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority, Canon Foundation, City of Asheville, Dogwood Health Trust, National Park Service, National Trust for Historic Preservation, and Self Help. Their support has been crucial in transforming this historic landmark into a premier venue for the community’s diverse needs.
For more information, please visit www.YMICulturalCenter.org, email [email protected], or call (828) 617-9001.
Written by YMI Cultural Center.