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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.”
Let There Be Light: An Investment In The YMI
Invest in the YMI as we seek to create a beautiful Afro-Future by honoring our past and present as the oldest Black Culture center in the nation, nestled in the mountain community of Asheville!
Festival of The People: The Goombay Archive (Art Exhibition)
Join us as we explore more than 40 years of Goombay history through the YMI’s archives. “Festival of a People” offers a retrospective of Asheville’s beloved Goombay Festival—tracing its beginnings from a fledgling community gathering to the cultural anchor it is today. Step back in time with us as we honor the past, uplift the present, and celebrate Goombay in this special “bridge” art exhibition.
A Funky Holiday Jam: John Brown Live
Join us for a memorable evening at the YMI Cultural Center! In cooperation with the Alphas of Asheville, we together present A Funky Holiday Jam: John Brown Live - a night of funk, jazz, and libations. Tickets are available on Zeffy!
The Asheville Divine Nine presents The Ugly Sweater Day Party
Get ready to show off your tackiest holiday sweater at the Ugly Sweater Day Party - it's going to be a blast with the Asheville Divine Nine!
Tickets available on Eventbrite
YMI Banjul-Banjo Series Presents Jazz & Soul Sessions
Join the YMI for an unforgettable Jazz & Soul Session featuring Kelle Jolly and the Will Boyd Project!
YMI Banjul-Banjo Series Presents Jazz & Soul Sessions SATURDAY EDITION
Join the YMI for an unforgettable Jazz & Soul Session featuring Kelle Jolly and the Will Boyd Project!
The YMI Annual Kwanzaa Celebration
Join us this year for an evening of storytelling, drumming, reflection, candle-lighting, African dance, and community connection. We invite you to wear your ancestral or African attire and to take part in this meaningful celebration. Guests are encouraged to bring a side dish or dessert to share—along with the recipe—to honor our tradition of collective sharing.
Space is limited, and while tickets are free to the public, we ask that you register on Eventbrite to reserve your spot. Should you wish to participate in the ceremony, please email us at info@ymiculturalcenter.org.
YMI Honors: Save The Date
It’s almost time for the second annual YMI Honors. We look forward to seeing you there!
Let There Be Light: "The Hanging of The Greens" & And A Day of Giving
Come join us for a joyful day of giving as we welcome the holiday season by Hanging the Greens throughout the YMI and decking the center in style!
YMI Banjul-Banjo Series Presents Jazz & Soul Sessions SATURDAY EDITION
Join the YMI for an unforgettable Jazz & Soul Session featuring Kelle Jolly and the Will Boyd Project!
YMI Banjul-Banjo Series Presents Jazz & Soul Sessions
Join the YMI for an unforgettable Jazz & Soul Session featuring Kelle Jolly and the Will Boyd Project!
Black Experience Book Club - Black Book Swap Edition
Join us for The Black Experience Book Club, a monthly gathering held every fourth Thursday at either the YMI Cultural Center’s Art Gallery or just around the corner at Noir Collective AVL. This community-centered series is hosted by alexandria ravenel, YMI’s Director of Community Engagement, and is designed to explore literature that centers the voices, histories, and futures of the African Diaspora. For location details or to RSVP, please contact alexandria ravenel directly at alexandria@ymiculturalcenter.org.
A Haunted Souls Soiree: The Return of Blacula
Pop out and wear your favorite Black costume as we celebrate the season right before things get really spooky! Join us for a night of fun, film, fellowship, and snacks!
YMI Banjul-Banjo Series Presents Jazz & Soul Sessions SATURDAY EDITION
Join the YMI for an unforgettable Jazz & Soul Session featuring Kelle Jolly and the Will Boyd Project!
YMI Banjul-Banjo Series Presents Jazz & Soul Sessions
Join the YMI for an unforgettable Jazz & Soul Session featuring Kelle Jolly and the Will Boyd Project!
Black Experience Book Club
Join us for The Black Experience Book Club, a monthly gathering held every fourth Thursday at either the YMI Cultural Center’s Art Gallery or just around the corner at Noir Collective AVL. This community-centered series is hosted by alexandria ravenel, YMI’s Director of Community Engagement, and is designed to explore literature that centers the voices, histories, and futures of the African Diaspora. For location details or to RSVP, please contact alexandria ravenel directly at alexandria@ymiculturalcenter.org.
The Premiere of "Urban Renewal Impact" by Todd Gragg
YMI is proud to host the premiere of Urban Renewal Impact, a powerful new film from filmmaker Todd Gragg and researcher Priscilla Robinson. Building on their acclaimed documentary Black in Asheville, this film uncovers the lasting impact of urban renewal on Asheville’s Black community.
Music In Common with Leaf Global Arts & YMI
Join us for a live music experience in celebration of the upcoming LEAF Festival! Music In Common brings dynamic artists to the YMI Auditorium for an unforgettable evening of genre-blending sound and community connection.
Crowned In Glory Demonstration & Conversation with Geraldine Settles
The Gallery @ YMI’s welcomes Geraldine “Jerrie” Settles, Kuumba Artist in Residence, for a new exhibit showcasing her unique watercolor, ink, and digital art. The show, entitled “Crowned in Glory,” focuses on themes of family, history, and faith.
Crowned In Glory Live Painting, Art Talk & Artist Reception - A Part of Goombay
The Gallery @ YMI’s welcomes Geraldine “Jerrie” Settles, Kuumba Artist in Residence, for a new exhibit showcasing her unique watercolor, ink, and digital art. The show, entitled “Crowned in Glory,” focuses on themes of family, history, and faith.
Outside Woman by Valeria Watson Exhibition
Step into Outside Woman, an immersive exhibition by artist Valeria Watson, housed in the YMI Suites. Avant-garde and interactive, Outside Woman asks onlookers to bring an open mind, ready to engage with art that is as alive and layered as the stories it tells.
Black Experience Book Club
Join us for The Black Experience Book Club, a monthly gathering held every fourth Thursday at either the YMI Cultural Center’s Art Gallery or just around the corner at Noir Collective AVL. This community-centered series is hosted by alexandria ravenel, YMI’s Director of Community Engagement, and is designed to explore literature that centers the voices, histories, and futures of the African Diaspora. For location details or to RSVP, please contact alexandria ravenel directly at alexandria@ymiculturalcenter.org.
Crowned In Glory Art Exhibition
The Gallery @ YMI’s welcomes Geraldine “Jerrie” Settles, Kuumba Artist in Residence, for a new exhibit showcasing her unique watercolor, ink, and digital art. The show, entitled “Crowned in Glory,” focuses on themes of family, history, and faith.
From Mike Wiley Productions: Tired Souls: King and the Montgomery Bus Boycott
Presented in partnership with North Carolina Stage Company and Mike Wiley Productions.
The YMI Cultural Center is proud to host Tired Souls: King and the Montgomery Bus Boycott, a powerful stage production that brings to life the early days of the Civil Rights Movement and the pivotal leadership of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Goombay “Got” Talent
Calling all Asheville area performers! It’s time to show us what you got so that we can add you to the Goombay lineup! Bring your talents to the YMI for one night only and sing your song, play your instrument, tell your jokes, speak your poem, and dance your heart out. We want to make you a local celebrity! Join us for an Asheville talent show like none other!
First Fridays on The Block: A 2 for 1
Join us this Friday for our monthly First Friday’s on the Block! You’ll find Affrilachian Artist Jenny Pickens in the Art Gallery as we close her exhibition! And on the Block, you’ll find a few of our Affrilachian village artisans selling goods in preparation for Goombay.
Black Experience Book Club
Join us for The Black Experience Book Club, a monthly gathering held every fourth Thursday at either the YMI Cultural Center’s Art Gallery or just around the corner at Noir Collective AVL. This community-centered series is hosted by alexandria ravenel, YMI’s Director of Community Engagement, and is designed to explore literature that centers the voices, histories, and futures of the African Diaspora. For location details or to RSVP, please contact alexandria ravenel directly at alexandria@ymiculturalcenter.org.
Pathway to Goombay Applications Due (for Local Vendors)
The YMI invites local vendors to participate in Goombay, in an area we are calling the Affrilachian Village! This initiative seeks to be a part of our workforce development programs that help small business owners effected by Hurricane Helene participate in a festival designed to highlight our local community's artisanal skills and talents! The Perks of the program include a deeply discounted rate for participation, additional training by Small Business experts, and an opportunity to vend at one other function in preparation for Goombay.
Beyond The Letters: Divine Nine Day Party
Beyond The Letters: Divine Nine Day Party
Join us on Saturday, July 12 from 2:00–6:00 PM at the historic YMI Cultural Center for an afternoon of style, celebration, and purpose. Featuring music by DJ Mark on the 1s and 2s, a cash bar, and a mobile cigar lounge by Classic Smokes, this event invites guests to keep it cool and classy in linens and sundresses. Beyond the Letters honors the legacy and community impact of the Divine Nine organizations, with a portion of proceeds supporting the launch of the Western NC Black College Fair. Non-Greeks are warmly welcomed—come celebrate Black excellence, culture, and connection with us
Closing Reception An America As Good As Its Promise
Join us for a closing reception of our “pop up” exhibition featuring various artists as we end the exhibition dedicated to Juneteenth and July 4th. Taken from a Barbara Jordan quote, “An America As Good As It’s Promise,” this is a provocative exhibit of Black experiences in the quest for freedom. Join us at the closing for live music, libations, and reflection.
SOCA Dance Social & Wellness Fair: An Ujima Wellness Initiative
Join us for an unforgettable kickoff to our Ujima Wellness Initiative as we dance the night away and learn SOCA with choreographer and dance coach, Chrislyn Lashington.
Black Experience Book Club
Every Fourth Thursday | YMI Cultural Center or Noir Collective AVL
Join us for The Black Experience Book Club, a monthly gathering held every fourth Thursday at either the YMI Cultural Center’s Art Gallery or just around the corner at Noir Collective AVL. This community-centered series is hosted by alexandria ravenel, YMI’s Director of Community Engagement, and is designed to explore literature that centers the voices, histories, and futures of the African Diaspora. This month’s selection is Joy is the Justice We Give Ourselves by J. Drew Lanham—an evocative reflection on Black joy, nature, and liberation. For location details or to RSVP, please contact alexandria ravenel directly at alexandria@ymiculturalcenter.org.
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
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!
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.
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