Sen. Parker celebrates opening of new Asasé Yaa Cultural Arts facility

October 8, 2024 Brooklyn Eagle Staff

Share this:

BROOKLYN — STATE SEN. KEVIN PARKER CELEBRATED THE RIBBON-CUTTING CEREMONY for the new Asasé Yaa Cultural Arts Foundation facility, made possible through his allocation of $250,000 in state capital funds. The foundation, a cornerstone of African and diasporic cultural expression in Brooklyn, has provided youth and families with access to dance, music, and education for over two decades. The new space will enable the foundation to expand its year-round offerings, including African drumming, dance, and theater, furthering its mission to empower children and nurture their creativity. Brothers Kofi Osei Williams and Ya Ababio founded the Asasé Yaa Cultural Arts Foundation, whose name means “Mother Earth.” The foundation celebrated its 20th anniversary during the 2021-22 season.

Parker’s own relationship with Asasé Yaa dates to 2012 when he partnered with their Artistic Director Zakiya Harris and won the Stars of New York Dance competition. This annual competition, modeled after Dancing with the Stars, raises funds for dance education, empowering children from low-income communities to develop creativity, discipline and self- esteem through the arts.

✰✰✰