Toronto
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Music Africa presented the 22nd annual Afrofest 2010 in Toronto, which is an event that celebrates everything that is Africa. Thousands of people came out to Queen's Park to partake in the festivities.
On Saturday, Queen’s Park hosted Afrofest 2010, which was presented by Music Africa. The 22nd annual festival is a celebration of African culture and music. The event, which continues on Sunday, is held on the same weekend as the final weekend of the World Cup.
Dozens of vendors were scattered throughout Queen’s Park and a variety of items were for sale, including African music instruments, clothing, food, music, literature and a number of others that saw intrigued and excited people from all backgrounds and cultures.
Digital Journal had the opportunity to speak with one vendor about the event, his merchandise and incident that happened between him and Coca Cola. Tristen Coffey, a Toronto organizer for Malachi York demonstrations, discussed Afrofest 2010:
“We’re down here at Afrofest to provide knowledge of everything from secret societies, religious studies and Egyptology wherever you want to go. Most of the literature here is supplied by Malachi York himself. We’re showcasing that but we also have a couple of goodies as well.”
Tristen Coffey's store's merchandise during Afrofest 2010 at Queen's Park in downtown Toronto.
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Tristen Coffey's store's merchandise during Afrofest 2010 at Queen's Park in downtown Toronto.
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A copy of a book by William Cooper being sold at a store at the Afrofest 2010 festival.
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Asked about the various styles of jewellery, clothing and styles, Coffey explained that it’s all Egyptian themed, which is the central theme of the store. Coffey added that he only received the items the day before and is quite excited to add it to the store's collection.
One hour before
Digital Journal’s arrival to the event, there was a confrontation between Coffey and representatives of Coca Cola. The soda giant had set up a African drumming dance right next to his store in order to raise funds for people to play soccer in South Africa; however, Coffey claims the company has been “raping” South Africa’s water and natural resources.
“We called hypocrisy in the middle of the drumming circle and kind of stepped in with a sign saying, “Coca Cola doesn’t care about African people or Africa.” You’re drinking African water, so get out of here. What are you doing here? It’s hypocrisy.”
Coffey added that the message didn’t make much of an impact to the representatives because of the company’s corporate interests.
Tristen Coffey's store's merchandise during Afrofest 2010 at Queen's Park in downtown Toronto.
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Tristen Coffey's store's merchandise during Afrofest 2010 at Queen's Park in downtown Toronto.
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Tristen Coffey's store's merchandise during Afrofest 2010 at Queen's Park in downtown Toronto.
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