Africa International House USA Inc.

The mission of AIH is to serve as a center that exposes and educates all peoples to the individual works and collective contributions of African cultures.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Expressions From Englewood: Prose, Poetry & Passion

Expressions From Englewood: Prose, Poetry & Passion
Community Arts for Seniors | FREE Event

Poetry, Prose & Passion

Join us for a powerful celebration of literature, culture, and community as we honor 20 years and 10 volumes of Expressions From Englewood. This special reading features editor and publisher Corey Hall alongside numerous contributors who have shaped this iconic literary series.

Attendees will experience poetry, prose, and storytelling rooted in Black history, lived experience, and creative expression. All ten volumes of Expressions From Englewood will be available for purchase.

Date: Saturday, February 7, 2026
Time: Starting at 11:00 AM
Location: Africa International House USA, Inc.
Center for Contemporary African Art & Culture Harris Park – Room 102 

6200 South Drexel Avenue
Chicago, IL 60637

Admission: Free / Open to the Public
Audience: Adults, Seniors, Community Members, Literature Lovers

Come experience art, culture, and creative expression in a welcoming space that celebrates community voices and senior artistry.

Love Yourself: Expert Panel Discussion

This Valentine’s Day weekend, join Africa International House USA, Inc. and the Coalition of African American Leaders (COAL) for a special Mental Health & Wellness Panel Discussion focused on self-love, healing, and restoration.

Esteemed mental health professionals and community leaders will lead a thoughtful conversation centered on emotional wellness, mental health awareness, and strategies for relaxation, release, and restoration—especially within the Black community.

Featured Panelists Include:

Dr. Richard Doss
Dr. Everett White
Dr. Renee Dickerson
Dr. Elliott Fourte
Elder Lanyaird Smith


Date: Saturday, February 14, 2026
Time: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Location: Africa International House USA, Inc. 

Center for Contemporary African Art & Culture
Harris Park – Room 102
6200 South Drexel Avenue
Chicago, IL 60637

Admission: Free
Audience: Adults, Seniors, Community Members
Theme: Mental Health • Self-Love • Wellness

Pre-Kwanzaa Holiday Celebration & Marketplace

Hosted by: Africa International House USA, Inc.

Celebrating Umoja (Unity)

Date: Saturday, December 20, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Location: Washington Park Refectory
5531 South Russell Drive
Chicago, Illinois 60637

Join us for a cultural experience that transcends time and space!
Celebrate Umoja—the first principle of Kwanzaa—through community, creativity, and culture.
Enjoy a lively marketplace featuring one-of-a-kind handcrafted products, delicious foods, live music, engaging conversations, storytelling, and so much more.

This is more than an event—it’s a celebration of unity, family, and shared heritage. Bring your loved ones and experience the warmth, creativity, and power of our community coming together before Kwanzaa.

KUJICHAGULIA:

A Day of Self-Determination

Friday, December 27 | Tickets: $25 (Lunch at 1 PM only)

Join us for a powerful Kwanzaa celebration focused on Kujichagulia — Self-Determination. This day features dynamic speakers, community dialogue, and Pan-African insight designed to strengthen our cultural identity and collective voice.

Event Schedule

11:00 AM – Self-Determination with Captain Traore: A Community Conversation (Part II)


Presenters: Nehaz Meniooh & Kasabez Maakmaah

2:30 PM – 4:30 PM – African & Diasporan Politics from a Pan-African Perspective
Presenter: Pa Joof

Why Attend?

Experience meaningful dialogue, cultural learning, and community connection as we close out the year in unity and empowerment.

All are welcome.

Testimonials

Malika T.,

Parent & Educator


"What AIH does for our youth and community is priceless. My daughter attended one of their youth programs and came home inspired to learn more about her roots. It’s more than art and music—it’s identity, empowerment, and connection."

Kwame A.,

Visual Artist


"Being featured as an artist through AIH gave my work a platform to be seen and appreciated by thousands. They don’t just support the arts—they uplift artists. I’m forever grateful for the exposure, the community, and the genuine love for our culture that AIH brings to every event."

Danielle R.,

Chicago, IL


"Attending the African Festival of the Arts was one of the most enriching experiences of my life. I felt an overwhelming sense of pride and joy walking through the vibrant displays of music, dance, and culture. AIH truly brings the spirit of Africa to Chicago in the most beautiful and authentic way."

FAQs

Find answers to common questions about our event planning services. Don't see yours? Contact us!

What is Africa International House USA, Inc.?

AIH is a nonprofit organization based in Chicago that promotes and preserves the cultures and traditions of the African diaspora through events, education, and community engagement.

Can school or community groups visit the exhibitions?

Absolutely! AIH encourages educational engagement. Contact the team directly to arrange a visit or guided tour.

What is the African Festival of the Arts (AFA)?

The African Festival of the Arts is AIH’s flagship event—a four-day outdoor celebration held annually in Washington Park, Chicago. It features art, music, food, fashion, and culture from across the African diaspora.

Where can I view the art exhibitions featured by AIH?

AIH curates and presents art exhibitions at various venues and special events. Check the Art Exhibitions section of the website for current and upcoming showcases.