Kariamu Welsh, D. Arts was a mother, daughter, sister, aunt, friend, mentor, and colleague to many. Whether one’s connection to her was via family, academia, dance classes or performances, or her written works, her impact on dance and African dance scholarship extends the world over. In the New York Times obituary article, one of her many students was quoted saying, “Dr. Welsh changed the landscape of how we think about African dance by showing that what we do with our bodies is worthy of investigation.”

Mama K Day was created to commemorate Mama Kariamu’s global reach, and bring awareness to her legacy. Sponsored by NAAADT, this will be an annual event held on the nearest Saturday to Mama Kariamu’s birthday, September 22. All proceeds from the fundraiser support NAAADT’s Umfundalai dance education programs, including the Umfundalai teaching certification program. To learn more about Mama Kariamu and read tributes and memorials honoring her and her work, follow the links below:
• NAAADT Umfundalai Description video, https://www.umfundalai.net/
• Sonya Morris, BlackPast Biography, https://www.blackpast.org/african-american-history/people-african-american-history/kariamu-welsh-asa...
• Gregory King, “Remembering Dr. Kariamu Welsh, Umfundalai’s Progenitor,” https://www.dancemagazine.com/kariamu-welsh/
• L. Graciella Maiolatesi, “Mama Kariamu Welsh: Memorial Tribute,” https://thinkingdance.net/articles/2021/11/12/41/Mama-Kariamu-Welsh-Memorial-Tribute/
• Boyer College of Music and Dance, Temple University Dr, Kariamu Welsh Memorial Celebration https://youtu.be/ucRSdslKJdQ