CAN’T MISS: “Ohio Is My Second Country” Concert & Book Launch

Salif Sarr, Shema Asifwe, Demba Ndiath, and Lynn Tramonte Celebrate Immigrants Making Ohio Their Home

Saturday, June 13, 3-4pm, Columbus Arts Festival, Outdoor Stage at Priscilla R. Tyson Cultural Arts Center (139 W. Main St)

COME EARLY

Columbus - “For me, singing … makes me live. When I’m singing … I feel like [all my problems] have gone away. I’m just flying,” said Salif Sarr to Matter News, while getting ready for his performance this Saturday, June 13, at the Columbus Arts Festival. Sarr is a Columbus resident and beloved, internationally known pop star from Mauritania.  

He will be joined by Shema Asifiwe, the Cincinnati-based artist (and high school student) behind the Ohio Immigrant Alliance’s new coloring book. Demba Ndiath, who is about to publish his book about West African migration to Ohio, will also take the stage. They are all part of “Ohio Is My Second Country,” the Ohio Immigrant Alliance’s fourth presentation at the Columbus Arts Festival. 

WHEN: June 13, 3-4pm (ARRIVE EARLY and take public transit or ride share if possible, parking is limited to paid lots) 

WHERE: Outdoor stage behind Priscilla R. Tyson Cultural Arts Center (139 W. Main Street; festival map)

Watch a preview of the concert and book presentation; order the coloring book or buy a concert t-shirt in advance — or get them at the festival (while supplies last). OIA will give out free coloring pages and sell other books and merchandise, as well as stickers and prints from Luka Weinberger (@lowbarluka), at the event.

Last year, OIA hosted “Pulaagam: A Celebration of Fulani Heritage” and in 2024, West African drummers Tam Tam Magic. This year promises to be another electrifying event. Watch Demba Ndiath, OIA’s Advocacy Director, post flyers at local businesses in the gallery below. Hear messages from the Mr. Seck, a member of the famous griot family, in Pulaar, and Guewel Mbaye, another celebrated singer who lives in Columbus, in Wolof.