Philadelphia, PA — With all the turmoil in the world, it sometimes gets difficult to see good things, to know what is real and what is propaganda, to remain strong in the face of nonsensical debates and confusion, to feel positive vibrations, or to envision a better, healthier and safer life. Each of us needs a moment to recharge, to reevaluate, to safely release stress and pain. Even the fiercest advocate of social change needs a momentary break from the front lines.
The 22nd Annual International Locks Conference (AILC) Natural Hair, Wholistic Health and Beauty Expo is not the cure all of the world’s ills. However, AILC (affectionately called the Philly Locks Conference), which will be held Saturday and Sunday, October 1 & 2, 2016 at the Universal Audenried Charter High School in Philadelphia, does offer a great opportunity to revitalize oneself, to relax, to learn, to reconnect with old friends, to meet new friends, to network, to have fun, to witness Aboriginal creativity and to build solid business and relationship possibilities, to buy black, to shop and shop some more, to eat delicious food, to hear live music, and to be motivated to move from talking about change to actively seeking solutions all while supporting an important cultural and educational institution.
Instead of ruminating on violence, mass genocide, and the devastating ills of this society The Kuumba Family Organizing Committee inspired by the song “Something Inside So Strong” by Labi Siffre decided to focus on what youth and awakened men and women want: to raise up the banner of global liberation and empowerment, to proclaim unapologetically for the divine right to be free, healthy and alive, and to honor African and Aboriginal Indigenous culture. Thus, they chose the theme of “2 Strong, 2 Real.”
The Annual International Locks Conference: Natural Hair, Wholistic Health and Beauty Expo, now in its 22nd year, has become the most authentic and longest running cultural and educational natural hair expo of its kind in this country and has been a grateful catalyst for the growth of many similar natural hair conferences and international natural hair meet-ups worldwide. The many sponsors, attendees, exhibitors, and speakers alike will passionately attest to the fact that the AILC is much more than a natural hair show, much bigger than an Afro, more than live musical and spoken word performances, and definitely more than an exceptional marketplace. It has become an essential and creative marketing tool for new and seasoned businesses, natural hair artists, and wholistic health and wellness practitioners seeking to empower themselves and to reach more clients, as well as a place where noted scholars and motivational speakers present their valuable information and where positive energy is experienced. This year the conference will feature among many presenters and artists, Professor Bayyinah Bello from Ayiti; Professor Griff from the group Public Enemy; Richard Muhammad, Editor in Chief of the Final Call newspaper; and social activist Dick Gregory. The conference has also become a much anticipated and well supported autumn gathering for networking and spiritual renewal.
Meeting new and old friends, learning valuable information, having the opportunity to shop, and shop some more, and joining in the celebration of our cultural expressions are just some of the reasons why we suggest that you mark your calendars now. Save the dates of Saturday, October 1 and Sunday, October 2, 2016. The 22nd Annual International Locks Conference: Natural Hair, Wholistic Health and Beauty Expo will be held at the Universal Audenried Charter High School (UACHS), 3301 Tasker Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19145. UACHS is near public transportation and free parking is available. Children under 12 receive FREE admission. To purchase tickets and/or for more information about volunteering, vending and/or general information, visit www.LocksConference.com or call 215-438-8189.
PRESS CONTACT:
MaMa Akosua Ali.Sabree
215-438-8189
Sakinah Ali.Sabree
888-305-3186