By Cathay Yenana – Media Specialist /Broadcaster/Business Owner
In an age where voices are often drowned out amidst the clamour of indifference, art emerges as a powerful beacon of hope and resistance. It transcends mere aesthetics, becoming a vital conduit for expression and change. This intersection of art and activism serves as a canvas where the vibrancy of creativity meets the urgency of social justice, shedding light on pressing issues and fostering empathy in a fractured world.
In this edition of Candid Reflections, I converse with New Orleanian Damon Batiste, from the Royal Family of Jazz in New Orleans, a cultural activist, musician and founder of the New Orleans South African Connection (NOSACONN). Batiste’s work has been instrumental in fostering cultural exchange and mutual respect between New Orleans and South Africa, making him an ideal figure to discuss the lasting impact of art in social movements as well as contemporary cultural dynamics.
Cathay Yenana: Share with us your journey since the inception of NOSACONN and your first visit to South Africa?
Damon Batiste:
My journey with NOSACONN began back in July of ’98, when I first set foot in South Africa. The vibrant rhythms and deep-rooted traditions struck a chord in my soul. I realized that music transcends borders, and I wanted to create a platform for cultural exchange. NOSACONN became that bridge, fostering connections between New Orleans and South Africa, celebrating our shared histories and diverse expressions. I’ve since returned a total of 89 visits to date, leading and being part of many projects.
Cathay Yenana: In what ways do musicians today draw inspiration from historical activist art movements, and how can they innovate on these methods?
Damon Batiste:
Musicians draw from the raw emotions and powerful narratives of the past, infusing them with contemporary sounds and styles of today. Innovation comes in blending traditional techniques with modern technology, allowing them to reach new audiences and amplify their messages in unique ways. It’s important to be unique and have your own voice. Music is a lifeline to most, and to some, it’s a way of life and expression.
Cathay Yenana: How did the collaboration between New Orleans and South African artists evolve from when you started to now?
Damon Batiste: It started out as a fact-finding mission as part of the African Renaissance post Apartheid, by having a visit to your beautiful country. Initially, it was about finding common ground, sharing stories, and exploring sounds. Now, we see a dynamic exchange where artists are not just collaborating but co-creating. This evolution reflects a deeper understanding and appreciation of each other’s cultures, enriching both communities.
Cathay Yenana: How can arts / cultural movements today draw inspiration from historical activist art movements, and how can they innovate on these methods?
Damon Batiste:
Arts and cultural movements today can look back at historical activist art for inspiration in terms of storytelling and community engagement. Innovating on these methods means embracing new media like digital art and social media, allowing for wider reach and more interactive participation. It’s about making art accessible and creating relevant, productive programs to uplift humanity.
Cathay Yenana: How did your organization, NOSACONN, contribute to a greater understanding of South African culture in New Orleans?
Damon Batiste:
By creating a “Celebrate Africa Week: Making the Connection” as our Centerpiece. This has been a tool that served as a Ground Zero Cultural Tourism Experience. NOSACONN has played a pivotal role in introducing South African culture to New Orleans through music festivals, workshops, and cultural exchanges. By showcasing South African artists, we’ve created a dialogue that fosters appreciation and respect.
Cathay Yenana: Has the legacy of the anti-apartheid movement influenced contemporary artists and activism?
Damon Batiste:
Absolutely, the legacy of the anti-apartheid movement has left an indelible mark on contemporary artists and activism. Yes, this has lit a fuse as a constant reminder of how the youth movement in music changed a generational path.
Cathay Yenana: What are some of the current challenges faced by America that you believe artists can help address?
Damon Batiste:
Artists can address these issues through their art by raising awareness and inspiring dialogue. The arts have the power to humanize these challenges and connect us on a deeper level. Program impact and using past experience to share new things are possible, that can work.
Cathay Yenana: How do you see the relationship between the arts and politics in the context of social justice today?
Damon Batiste:
The relationship between the arts and politics is intrinsically linked, especially in the context of social justice. Art can be a catalyst for change, provoking thought, evoking conversation, and encouraging action. It serves as a voice for the marginalized, giving them a platform to express their realities and advocate for their rights.
Cathay Yenana: How do you perceive the political climate in the US today and its impact on international solidarity movements?
Damon Batiste:
The political climate globally is tumultuous, and it heavily influences international solidarity movements. By creating more opportunities to expand conversation and resources. This can be a never-ending conversation, but we must start somewhere. Artists can play a crucial role in bridging these gaps, fostering unity
Cathay Yenana: What strategies can artists employ to create lasting change beyond immediate awareness, transforming political engagement into tangible action?
Damon Batiste:
To create lasting change, artists should join forces. We at NOSACONN are interested in bringing part of this conversation with youth and adding technology solutions geared to the everyday creative community.
We can develop community-based projects that focus on education and partner with local organizations to foster sustainable initiatives.
REFLECTION: As we reflect on the enduring connections formed through art and activism, we should also contemplate the current global political landscape. Division echoes across various parts of the world, including here at home in South Africa. The ramifications are multifaceted, sparking discourse around racial tensions, human rights, and the role of the US in global politics. In our relentless pursuit of a fairer world, this conversation reminds me that each melody, note, and lyric holds the potential to ignite movements, provoke conversations, and ultimately reshape our understanding of what it means to be human. – Cathay Yenana. @NewsSA_Online