An interview with Colonel Frank Lumsden and Dr. Frances Botkin

The annual International Maroon Conference and Convention at Charles Town in Jamaica is  becoming an important venue  for highlighting Maroon culture in the Caribbean, Mexico, South America, and Canada.

Col. Ferron Williams of the Accompong Maroons

Every year since 2009, the event has brought together Maroons, indigenous peoples, and academics from all over the world for a three day celebration. Known for its broad approach, the conference explores Maroon culture from a variety of angles: history,  literature, ethnography, anthropology, sociology, geography, archaeology, political theory, gender studies, cultural studies, film, linguistics, art, music and theater.  Organized by Colonel Frank Lumsden, Dr. Frances Botkin, Dr. Paul Youngquist, Mr. Evan Williams, and Mr. Charles Campbell, the Fourth International Maroon Conference and Convention will once again convene this summer.

Loyal to tradition, this year’s event (scheduled for June 20-24) will take place in concurrence with the Quao Day festivities, when Jamaicans give homage to Captain Quao, a legendary Maroon leader and national hero. With alluring attractions such as Maroon dancing, drumming, singing, poetry, storytelling, cultural tours,  food, crafts booths, the blowing of the abeng, river bathing at Quao Village, as well as fashion shows highlighting the African mode of dress and clothing designs,  the event promises to repeat the inspiring excellence it has achieved in previous years.

Abeng Central is honored to have the opportunity of meeting Colonel Frank Lumsden and Frances Botkin, two of the event’s organizers. Read the interview here.