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as we celebrate community throughout the year!
…And Be Warm: Programming Curatorial Statement for 25-26
The late Nikki Giovanni was a poet from Affrilachia who wrote a poem entitled, “Knoxville Tennessee,” about visiting her grandmother’s house and feeling the kind of warmth that made for loving relationships. She reminisces on the colocation of time, space, hospitality, familiarity and memory in this work. Thus, as we return home from the journey of renovation in every possible way, we ready ourselves to throw open our doors to welcome our many constituents into our spaces. We are excited to convene community, celebrate successes, educate, empower, and embrace wellness.
This year’s slate of programming seeks to consider what it means to embody a spirit of TERANGA, the Senegalese Wolof word for “good/radical hospitality.” For sure, we seek to be a place or radical hospitality, asking how can we serve our community better. At the same time, we raise questions about hospitality and tourism and how our Black histories are tethered to the legacies of those industries. We ask, “what can we learn from our unique past in the mountains, where snow and ice must be tempered by invitations of warmth and comfort?”
We invite our communities - local, regional, and national - to experience a renaissance in the hills, where we seek to gather as often as we can to be as warm as a visit to our “grandma’s” house, as enlightened as when we cook greens with our “aunties,” and with all the joy as when our uncles stop by to sit on the porch and make us laugh. We invite all who come home to the YMI Cultural center, to come on in… “and be warm.”
“And Still We Rise” Art Exhibition with Jenny Pickens
As our inaugural Kuumba Artist-In-Residence, Jenny Pickens sets the stage for our Art Gallery exhibitions in our renovated spaces. Pickens is a self taught artist from Asheville, whose work is both breath taking and thought provoking. Her exhibit, featuring rich and powerful new pieces, opens on May 12th and runs to June 21, 2025.
“And Still We Rise” is a body of new acrylic on canvas works reflecting deep cultural resonance in bright captivating colors, embedded with symbology and objects from nature. Also on exhibit are framed charcoal drawings and hand-made collector dolls, three dimensional representations of Jenny’s work.
The Gallery @ YMI features a two year line-up of curated experiences by local and regional Black artists in a newly renovated space.
The Ujima Virtual 5K - Run for the YMI
Join the YMI Cultural Center for our Run for the YMI – Ujima Virtual 5K, a signature fundraising event that empowers health and wellness through our Ujima programming. Rooted in the principle of Ujima—collective work and responsibility—this initiative invites individuals and families to come together in the spirit of unity, fitness, and community care.
Whether you're walking, running, or cheering from the sidelines, your participation helps support the YMI’s ongoing efforts to promote holistic well-being in Asheville’s Black community.
Participants can complete their virtual 5K anytime the week leading up to our Featured Race Day & Community Health Fair on June 14th—a celebration of movement, mindfulness, and mutual care in the heart of downtown.
The physical event will include:
Health screenings & wellness vendors
Live music & movement sessions
Youth and elder-friendly activities
Fresh food, prizes, and more!
Proceeds from the race will directly support YMI’s Ujima programs, including mental health workshops, fitness classes, nutritional education, and community healing initiatives.
Let’s lace up for collective wellness. Let’s run for the YMI.
The Ujima Health Fair is sponsored in part by The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina
JUNETEENTH ART EXHIBITION: An America As Good As Its Promise
Join us for a pop-up exhibition featuring various artists as we curate an exhibition for Juneteenth and July 4th. Taken from a Barbara Jordan quote, “An America As Good As It’s Promise,” seeks to be a provocative exhibit of Black experiences in the quest for freedom. Join us specifically on Juneteenth for live music, libations, and reflection.
JUNETEENTH- A Tour In Resilience
Have you ever wanted to know the story behind the oldest Black Cultural Center in America? This Juneteenth, take a step into history with a walking tour of the YMI Cultural Center—right in the heart of Asheville. Discover the legacy, resilience, and cultural impact of this historic institution through a guided experience that lasts approximately two hours. Along the way, you’ll encounter two powerful art exhibitions: one in the salons that explores Black political insight, and another in the official gallery by Jenny Pickens, titled And Still I Rise. Please note: the tour includes traveling up four flights of stairs as we explore the full depth of this historic space. Tickets are available now on Eventbrite, and after the tour, you're invited to enjoy the local shops, food, and community celebrations happening throughout The Block. Choose between three start times…and reserve your tickets on Eventbrite!
The Ujima Health Fair - Juneteenth Edition
Join the YMI Cultural Center for our 2nd Bi-Annual – Ujima Health Fair - Juneteenth Edition, a signature program that empowers health and wellness through our Ujima programming. Rooted in the principle of Ujima—collective work and responsibility—this initiative invites individuals and families to come together in the spirit of unity, fitness, and community care.
The physical event will include:
Health screenings & wellness vendors
Live music & movement sessions
Youth and elder-friendly activities
Fresh food, prizes, and more!
Proceeds from the race will directly support YMI’s Ujima programs, including mental health workshops, fitness classes, nutritional education, and community healing initiatives.
Let’s lace up for collective wellness. Let’s run for the YMI Let’s learn from Ujima.
The Ujima Health Fair is sponsored in part by The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina
Divine Nine Day Party - Save The Date
Save The Date
Join us for the Divine Nine Day Party on Saturday, July 12th from 2–6 PM at the historic YMI Cultural Center in Asheville! This NPHC celebration will feature a live DJ, cash bar, and plenty of space to rep your letters and connect with fellow Greeks. Tickets go on sale soon—don’t miss this high-energy afternoon of music, movement, and community. More details to follow!
“And Still We Rise” with Jenny Pickens Artist Reception
Join us for an artistic viewpoint of what it means to survive and thrive growing up in Asheville, NC., with artist Jenny Pickens The evening will open with a spoken word artist and West African Drummer.
Music. Refreshments. Spoken Word. Conversation.
Representative Brian Turner Townhall
Join us at the historic YMI Cultural Center for a vital community conversation with North Carolina Representative Brian Turner. This town hall is an opportunity to engage directly with Rep. Turner on the issues that matter most to our community—from education and economic development to cultural preservation and equity. Come share your voice, ask questions, and be part of the dialogue shaping our future.
Double Dip Productions: Closing Night of Asheville Improv Festival 2025- 9pm Headliner Show
Join us for a night of improv comedy that will have you rolling in the aisles with our featured headliner! This event is a part of the larger Improv Festival. Tickets are just $25 per. Get them before they are gone!
First Friday's At The YMI (and on the Block)
Every First Friday, The Block comes alive with opportunities to wander in and out of spaces filled with music, poetry, art and other seasonal opportunities. The YMI Cultural Center is proud to be a part of the First Friday experience every month!
Spectrum Community Impact Festival
Come celebrate the new work force development partnership between Spectrum and the YMI Cultural Center with an afternoon of support, love and celebration. There will be food, give-aways, live music, face painting and more at the afternoon event.
First Friday's At The YMI (and on the Block)
Every First Friday, The Block comes alive with opportunities to wander in and out of spaces filled with music, poetry, art and other seasonal opportunities. The YMI Cultural Center is proud to be a part of the First Friday experience every month!
White & Wood: An Inaugural Art Exhibition
Join us in our inaugural Art Exhibition as we explore the YMI archives. White & Wood explores the beautifully rich sketch work of Charles White in conversation with woodwork hewed both in the United States and on the continent of Africa. The exhibition seeks to consider both the political and social implications of what comes from Black hands.
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.
Grand Re-Opening & Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony
Join us as we open the doors of our space after a period of semi-dormancy and a five-year renovation.
Black History Brunch: African Americans & Labor
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.
The YMI's 132nd 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.
First Friday on The Block: "The Warm Up"
Kick off Black History Month by weaving through an evening tapestry of storytelling and arts at Noir Collective, LEAF Global Arts, and YMI, craft a community quilt of experiences and connections. We give you a sneak peek into our art filled spaces that will leave you ready to celebrate and reflect on Black History in the month made famous for its dedication.
UJIMA Health Expo
Join us on Saturday, December 28, from 2 PM–6 PM at the YMI Cultural Center for the UJIMA Health Expo!
As we honor the Kwanzaa principle of collective work and responsibility, let’s nurture our minds and bodies together as we prepare for the new year.
KWANZAA 365: A SEVEN DAY CELEBRATION, FOR A YEAR LONG PRACTICE
The YMI Cultural Center will host a free daily celebration — Dec. 26, through Jan. 1 at 6pm — This celebration is also available through the organization’s YouTube Channel for those who can’t attend in person.
"Meet the Executive Director" Welcome Reception
Join us to meet Rev. Sean Hasker Palmer, our new Executive Director, and hear his vision for the YMI. Light refreshments provided.
POSTPONED: "Even Me - The Children's Story!" Dinner Theater
This powerful play delves deep into the world of mental health, offering a fresh perspective through the eyes of children whose mother is battling Alzheimer's. And the best part? This event takes place during the vibrant Goombay Festival!
POSTPONED: Goombay Festival 2024: "Back to Our Roots"
The YMI Cultural Center is proud to be the host of this weekend festival attracting thousands to downtown Asheville each year. This free, family event connects community, and showcases Black culture, art, food and entertainment.
POSTPONED: YMI Grand Re-Opening & Ribbon-Cutting
We are thrilled to announce the long-awaited grand reopening of the YMI Cultural Center! Please join us as we unveil our newly renovated facility and celebrate our rich cultural heritage with the community. This special event will mark the beginning of a new chapter for YMI, featuring an engaging program and tour of our updated spaces.
We look forward to celebrating this exciting milestone with you!
The Long March for Unity & Justice: Asheville
THE LONG MARCH FOR UNITY & JUSTICE will bring North Carolinians together. Let's connect, collaborate, and create a brighter future together. #UnityInAction
The Order of the Long Leaf Pine Award Ceremony
North Carolina Attorney General and Democratic gubernatorial candidate Josh Stein will present Chief District Court Judge Calvin Hill and retired WLOS news anchor Darcel Grimes with the prestigious "Order of the Long Leaf Pine" award, the state's highest civilian honor.
FIRST FRIDAY RECEPTION - An Interactive Traveling Art Exhibition “Aiming for Freedom: Race, Reparations & Right Paths”
“Aiming for Freedom: Race, Reparations & Right Paths,” an interactive traveling art exhibition featuring Black feminist artistic visions of our shared liberation is on display at the YMI Cultural Center at its corner space at the intersection of Eagle and South Market Streets.
An Interactive Traveling Art Exhibition: “Aiming for Freedom: Race, Reparations & Right Paths”
“Aiming for Freedom: Race, Reparations & Right Paths,” an interactive traveling art exhibition featuring Black feminist artistic visions of our shared liberation is on display at the YMI Cultural Center at its corner space at the intersection of Eagle and South Market Streets.
Juneteenth on The Block
Organized by The Block:
Join us for "Juneteenth on the Block," an all-day celebration in Asheville, NC, to commemorate Juneteenth. The Block neighborhood will come alive with various pop-in events hosted by neighbors from 4-7pm. The festivities will culminate in an evening gathering at The Foundry’s Workshop Lounge, where we will enjoy heavy hors d'oeuvres, drinks, and fellowship. This is a wonderful opportunity to come together as a community, celebrate freedom, and honor this historic day. Don’t miss out on this vibrant and meaningful event with LEAF Global Arts, PennyCup Coffee, Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Noir Collective, Asheville Crafted Edge, JD Ellison & Company, and more!
>> LEARN MORE
Mosaic Realty's Annual Art Walk & Benefit
We invite you to join us on May 2nd from 5-9 pm for Mosaic Realty’s 2nd annual Art Walk & Benefit. The YMI Cultural Center is one of the 15 participating nonprofits featured at the Art Walk.
YMI Cultural Center Yard Sale
We're pleased to share that we're on the cusp of moving back into our newly renovated building! It's been a journey, and we're thrilled to see it come to fruition. As we prepare for our return, we've uncovered some wonderful items that we're offering to the community.
Join us this Saturday for a special community sale where you'll find great deals on a variety of items. Drop by the corner suite between 9am and 1pm to browse and shop!
YMI Book Swap At Noir Collective
YMI Cultural Center & BCPL present the Black Experience Book Swap!
Giving Tuesday
YMI is on a mission to build up our Black community in Asheville and what better way to start then getting to know YOU! We are hosting a drop-in at Noir Collective on November 28 from 12-5pm. Stop by to meet the team, learn about our programs, and share your thoughts on what you’d like to see at the YMI in 2024.
Our Giving Tuesday event will give you the opportunity to shop from all Black owned business ( and get ahead of holiday shopping) There will be light refreshments and lots of conversation.
YMI Hard Hat Tour - September 27
A new day is on the horizon for the YMI Cultural Center, and we would like to invite you on a Hard Hat Tour to share our excitement for the rehabilitation of the 130-year-old historical landmark, the cornerstone of The Block and the Black experience in Asheville.
Please join us for a sneak peek of our upgraded facility and new venue spaces ideally suited for meetings, events, workshops and more.
Tour date options: August 16, August 30, September 13 & September 27
WHAT TO EXPECT:
You will be walking through a construction site. Please wear closed-toe shoes.
The elevator is not in service so climbing stairs will be required to experience the full tour.
Hard hats will be provided.
Tours will last approximately 45-minutes.
YMI Hard Hat Tour - September 13
A new day is on the horizon for the YMI Cultural Center, and we would like to invite you on a Hard Hat Tour to share our excitement for the rehabilitation of the 130-year-old historical landmark, the cornerstone of The Block and the Black experience in Asheville.
Please join us for a sneak peek of our upgraded facility and new venue spaces ideally suited for meetings, events, workshops and more.
Tour date options: August 16, August 30, September 13 & September 27
WHAT TO EXPECT:
You will be walking through a construction site. Please wear closed-toe shoes.
The elevator is not in service so climbing stairs will be required to experience the full tour.
Hard hats will be provided.
Tours will last approximately 45-minutes.
YMI Hard Hat Tour - August 30
A new day is on the horizon for the YMI Cultural Center, and we would like to invite you on a Hard Hat Tour to share our excitement for the rehabilitation of the 130-year-old historical landmark, the cornerstone of The Block and the Black experience in Asheville.
Please join us for a sneak peek of our upgraded facility and new venue spaces ideally suited for meetings, events, workshops and more.
Tour date options: August 16 & August 30.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
You will be walking through a construction site. Please wear closed-toe shoes.
The elevator is not in service so climbing stairs will be required to experience the full tour.
Hard hats will be provided.
Tours will last approximately 45-minutes.