Join the Celebration: Odunde Festival's 40th Anniversary Showcases African Culture in Seattle
In a recent episode of The Day with Trae, host Trae Holiday welcomed Dr. Traci Harrell, a community leader, consultant, and advocate, to discuss her contributions to the upcoming 40th anniversary celebration of the African cultural organization, ADEFUA, and the plans for a new African Cultural Arts Center. Dr. Harrell, who brings over 25 years of experience in corporate leadership and community work, shared her passion for supporting organizations like ADEFUA, which has served the Seattle area for decades.
The ADEFUA 40th Anniversary, Odunde Festival will take place on November 16, 2024. The festival is celebrating its 40th anniversary and will include various cultural performances, workshops, and activities focused on African culture. It’s a key event for raising awareness and support for the new African Cultural Arts Center in Seattle.
During the interview, Dr. Harrell highlighted her journey with ADEFUA, initially through her work with the Community Reinvestment Fund, where she offered support and guidance on securing funding. She spoke fondly of her connection with ADEFUA's founder, Afua Kouyate, describing how their partnership is rooted in mutual respect, community vision, and a shared commitment to uplifting African culture. This dedication led to her involvement in supporting ADEFUA’s annual Odunde Festival on October 16, which marks a milestone in the organization's four-decade history. Dr. Harrell emphasized that for her, the work is more than a job—it's a calling to pour her skills and resources into the community to help create sustainable opportunities for growth and connection.
Reflecting on her values, Dr. Harrell shared her belief in the importance of living a "legacy of love and service." She recalled a powerful moment early in her career when Dr. Maxine Mims, a respected community elder, introduced her to the idea of "living in legacy" through intentional service and support for others. This principle became central to her work and, ultimately, her life’s mission. Dr. Harrell expressed that her involvement with ADEFUA and the upcoming African Cultural Arts Center allows her to contribute to a cause that celebrates African culture while creating space for future generations to learn, grow, and lead.
As ADEFUA moves forward with its ambitious plans, Dr. Harrell discussed the vision behind the new African Cultural Arts Center, which will be a four-story facility dedicated to art, culture, education, and community gathering. She described how the Center is meant to be a space where everyone can come together to honor and expand African heritage. Additionally, there are plans for a digital platform where people can contribute their stories, experiences, and support, helping to build a “legacy wall” that will reflect the voices of the community. Through monthly events and gatherings throughout 2025, ADEFUA aims to foster an inclusive environment where community members can contribute to shaping the future of African culture in Seattle.
Trae Holiday echoed Dr. Harrell’s sentiments, discussing how the show serves as a “dose of daily dopeness,” celebrating authenticity and resilience in the community. Dr. Harrell responded by reinforcing her belief that leadership in community spaces requires showing up with purpose, joy, and authenticity. She spoke about the honor of being part of ADEFUA’s ongoing journey, as the organization looks to the next 40 years with as much passion and vision as it did in its early days.
Dr. Harrell concluded the conversation by encouraging community members to attend the Odunde Festival on November 16 and to consider donating to ADEFUA’s Building Legacy Fund. She sees this as an opportunity for the community to actively participate in leaving a legacy of support and pride in African culture. Emphasizing her philosophy that “it’s all bigger than me,” Dr. Harrell invited listeners to join her in supporting ADEFUA and the new Cultural Arts Center, creating a shared legacy that will empower future generations.
For more information, visit http://www.itsallbiggerthanme.com/.
To see more guests like Dr. Harrell, tune in with Trae every weekday at 11 a.m. on all Converge Media platforms and The Day With Trae YouTube Channel.
