IV Inter-American week for people of african descent in the Americas

Image:Joseph Jean-Gilles (Haiti, b.1943)

In celebration of the IV Inter-American Week for People of African Descent in the Americas, the Office of the Assistant Secretary General, in collaboration with the AMA | Art Museum of the Americas, is pleased to present a virtual exhibition of artwork which highlights past and ongoing struggles of Afro-descendants in confronting the legacy of slavery. A vibrant depiction of Afro-life and culture, these images, many submitted by Member States and others which form part of the AMA collection, serve to amplify the voices and shared experiences of Afro-descendants who, through their tireless efforts and resilient spirits, have overcome atrocious adversity and injustice which plague our Americas.

In keeping with the OAS Plan of Action for the International Decade for People of African Descent (2016-2025) approved at the Regular Session of the OAS General Assembly in June 2016 and which calls on Member States to, “highlight the positive nature of the contribution made by Afro-descendants as protagonists in constructing the region’s nations and their economic, political, cultural, social and historical contributions to development,” it is hoped that this art exhibition will lead to a greater understanding of the rich history and indomitable pride of Afro-descendants in the Americas.