Lathrup Village Celebrates Caribbean Fest

Lathrup Village Celebrates Caribbean Fest
(Crystal A. Proxmire, Sept. 23, 2019)
Lathrup Village, MI – Tropically seasoned sounds and the smells of island cuisine filled the air as attendees enjoyed the first Lathrup Village Caribbean Fest.
Alsina McMorris of Novi came to help with the celebration which included many Lathrup Village residents with Caribbean roots, as well as visitors from both the US and Canada.
“The exciting thing to me is the diversity,” McMorris said.  “With the world as it is now, we have to show up. We have to show that our community is diverse.”
McMorris enjoys celebrating her Jamaican heritage.  “A lot of Caribbean immigrants are here in Lathrup Village,” she said.  “This is a great way to meet neighbors, and find other people with similar backgrounds.”
Mama Raven manned the information booth – face dotted with brightly colored facepaint, a wide smile, and bold earrings.
When asked about what Caribbean culture means to her, Mama  Raven said “It’s all about the island life – the food, the music.”
“It helps to encourage people,” she said.  “We need to celebrate what makes us unique.”
The event featured concerts and games including the limbo, hula hoop, and a dance off. Vendors shared resources and offered their wares. And of course there was Caribbean food including jack fruit, rice, and oxtail.
Rising star, sixteen year old Shai graced the stage with her powerful voice and soulful songs. Throughout the day various performers charmed the crowd, including Roots Vibration, and PanamO. The event opened with a parade that included ornate costumes that remained on display at the stage.
“This is the first time we’ve had the festival here,” said McMorris.  “Hopefully it can be a tradition.”
     

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