Two-Day Celebration of Culture, Music, and Unity

Bridge-Pamoja, in partnership with the Coalition of African & African American Pastors/Imams and the Proactivists of Oregon, invites the public to Soul2Soul 2025, a two-day celebration of culture, music, and unity.

The African & African American Summit will take place on Thursday, August 22, from 6:00 to 9:00 PM at Portland Community College, 705 N. Killingsworth St. This year’s theme celebrates Afro-Futurism in the spirit of Ubuntu (“I am because you are”) and highlights the Somali community, which numbers about 12,000 in Oregon. The summit will explore Somali cultural history within the context of the broader African Diaspora and African American experience. Featuring thought-provoking conversations and inspiring speakers, the event is designed to foster connection, shared understanding, and collective empowerment.

The Cultural Celebration will be held on Saturday, August 24, from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM at Alberta Park, 1905 NE Killingsworth St. The event will feature electrifying performances from artists across the African Diaspora, with music ranging from Gospel, R&B, and Hip Hop to Afrobeat, Funk, and traditional drumming. Attendees can enjoy cultural and modern dance, games, vendor booths, and the rich flavors of African, Caribbean, and Soul Food cuisine.

Families will also find children’s activities, health resources, and community soccer and basketball tournaments. This outdoor celebration invites everyone to come together in unity, heritage, and joy.

Now in its 4th year, Soul2Soul is designed to engage, invigorate, and elevate the artistic contributions of African and African Americans in the world for ALL to celebrate. It is a catalyst to heighten understanding within and between our communities, to showcase our contributions of the arts to the world and to elevate our oneness in the spirit of Ubuntu (“I am because you are”). Since its inception, Soul2Soul has attracted nationally recognized music artists such Andy Stokes, J.J. Hairston, Liv Warfield and a host of local artists.

In addition, over 35 black business vendors participated as a complement to a range of interactive children activities, health resources and school supplies giveaways, along with cultural cuisine that honors the cultural heritage of African and African Americans. This event has been featured on all the local television stations, newspapers and radio stations.

Soul2Soul embraces the importance of family and creates space for all ages to connect. With interactive programming and opportunities to experience the richness of the African Diaspora, the event centers joy, resilience, and togetherness.