"Dance of Inclusion" 2024
Title: “Dance of Inclusion”
Medium: Digital Art
Dimensions: 27 x 39 inches
Artists: Femi Kayede and Anthony B. Adeaba
Description:
"Dance of Inclusion" is a vibrant digital art piece that transposes Suzanne Matthews onto the Jefferson Memorial, celebrating her contributions to cultural inclusion through dance. The artwork seamlessly integrates her poised and confident presence with the stately neoclassical architecture of the memorial, symbolizing her role as a cultural bridge. Her attire adds vibrancy and personality, highlighting her efforts to enrich community life through dance. This piece honors Suzanne’s legacy of fostering cultural awareness and unity, inviting viewers to reflect on the power of dance to celebrate diversity.
Suzanne Matthews: Champion of Dance and Community Engagement
Suzanne Matthews is a dedicated advocate for Caribbean culture and community inclusion, particularly through her work in dance. Her journey began upon arriving in the United States from Guyana, landing in a small town in Illinois where she found a lack of cultural awareness about the Caribbean. This realization spurred her passion for cultural education and community building, which she carried with her to Howard University. There, she became actively involved with the Caribbean Students Association, driven by a desire to create inclusive spaces for students who felt marginalized.
At Howard University, Suzanne utilized her background from attending the National Dance School in Guyana to form a dance company on campus, initially named La Fleur des Caris, later evolving into Mudra Caribe and eventually becoming La Musica Danceworks. This group provided a platform for Caribbean students and community members to connect, share their culture, and feel included. Under Suzanne’s leadership, La Musica Danceworks has grown and over the 40 years of its existence performed at prestigious venues such as the White House Easter Egg Roll, Wolf Trap, the Kennedy Center, and the Lincoln Theater.
Suzanne's dedication to inclusion provided meaningful opportunities for youth in the community, particularly through summer workshops supported by the Summer Youth Employment Program. Her advice to young people reflects her own journey: to find something that inspires them, seek inclusion, and give back to their community. Suzanne’s work in mental health, where she integrates dance into therapeutic settings, further demonstrates her commitment to using dance as a tool for healing and connection.
Suzanne Matthews' legacy in dance and community engagement stands as a testament to the power of cultural expression and the importance of creating inclusive spaces. Her work has touched countless lives, fostering a sense of belonging and cultural pride among Caribbean Americans and the broader community.
