Collective Aśe: A One Day Conference on the Orisha Tradition in an Era of Global Change and Crisis
Join us for a transformative one-day exploration of the role of African diasporic traditions in confronting global threats. This is a time like no other, yet the Orisha tradition, and other African Diasporic Religious systems, have always been a beacon through storms. We’ll explore how our sacred traditions can help us rise to meet today’s political, social and environmental crisis.
📅 Saturday, August 23, 2025 | 🕗 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Renaissance New York Harlem Hotel, 233 W 125th Street, NYC between Frederick Douglass Boulevard (8th Avenue) and Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Boulevard (7th Avenue)
Art exhibition and cultural marketplace
Children’s playroom (Ages 5+) – Volunteer staffed play area
Lunch will be provided
📅 Saturday, August 23, 2025
🕗 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Renaissance New York Harlem Hotel, 233 W 125th Street, NYC between Frederick Douglass Boulevard (8th Avenue) and Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Boulevard (7th Avenue)
HIGHLIGHTS:
Art exhibition and cultural marketplace
Children’s playroom (Ages 5+) – Volunteer staffed play area
NYS Senator Kevin S. Parker Seasoned Legislator focused on energy policy, economic development, and equitable progress for Brooklyn constituents
James Smalls Professor, Renown Scholar, Activist, and Organizational Consultant
Esmeralda Simmons Civil Rights Attorney and Founder-Center for Law and Social Justice at Medgar Evers College
NYS Senator Kevin S. Parker Seasoned Legislator focused on energy policy, economic development, and equitable progress for Brooklyn constituents
James Smalls Professor, Renown Scholar, Activist, and Organizational Consultant
Esmeralda Simmons Civil Rights Attorney and Founder-Center for Law and Social Justice at Medgar Evers College
Join spiritual leaders, legal advocates, cultural practitioners, scholars, and community activists for a transformative day exploring the role of African diasporic traditions in protecting what is sacred during times of political, social, and environmental crisis.
Through thought-provoking panels, hands-on strategy sessions, and a vibrant cultural celebration, we will unite to share wisdom, strengthen community resilience, and create actionable plans for advocacy and protection.
Spiritual Resilience: Protecting Ourselves and Our Communities
Centering Divine Feminine Power for Planetary Healing
Strategies for Peace, Protection, Wellness and Joy
Building Unity Across Lineages and Religions
Why Attend?
Wisdom & Strategy: Learn from elders, legal experts, and cultural leaders as they share insights and strategies that may light your way forward.
Practical Tools: Gain strategies for spiritual protection, emotional wellness, and advocacy. Might there be new tools for joy?
Cultural Connection: Experience an exhibit of Orisha Costumes and a marketplace of books, art and spiritual products.
Networking: You’re not the only one worried about the current direction of the country. Meet others walking this path—who are just as concerned as you.
Special Event Features
Special Gift Bags for All Attendees: Filled with cultural keepsakes and resources
Raffle Prizes: Enter to win unique gifts from our vendors and partners
Children’s Playroom (Ages 5+): Volunteer staffed playroom service so you can fully participate while your child enjoys supervised activities
Art Exhibition & Cultural Marketplace: Browse works from talented artisans and vendors
Who Should Attend?
This gathering is designed for:
Practitioners of Orisha and other African spiritual traditions
Scholars and students of culture, religion, and history
Cultural advocates, community leaders, and activists
Anyone curious about African diasporic wisdom traditions
Learn together, build strategies, and foster community