PINKSTER WALK CELEBRATION

Joy is An Act of Resistance celebration. We invite you to please join us at our Pinkster Walk, at 11:30 AM on June 4th, in commemoration of this celebration of shared history.  The Walk kicks off from the Old Dutch Church at 272 Wall Street, Kingston NY 12401 at 11:30 AM and heads over to The Senate House (296 Fair St, Kingston NY 12401) for a Pinkster bazaar and day party! So wear your company shirt, bring the banner, and be prepared for fun! 

Let us know you’re coming! Please complete the Pinkster Registration Form to confirm your participation.

What is Pinkster?

Pinkster is a celebration of joy and freedom that originated in the 17th Century, when the Dutch Reformed Church and Dutch settlers “freed” enslaved Africans for one week, in observance of Pentecost. While the Dutch observed, the enslaved took the opportunity to see those from whom they were separated; as it was the sole time that the enslaved could travel. The Africans celebrated their time together with drumming, dancing, food, and the ritual of shared parables. The joyful spirit of Pinkster attracted everyone in the community to join the festivities, momentarily bypassing color and class. Pinkster festivals continued into British rule and flourished into the 19th century. This coming together is credited as a factor in New York State’s abolition of slavery in 1827.

We invite all members of the community to join us for a joyous procession through downtown Kingston leading to the Pinkster Day Celebration! Led by the Pinkster Players, Chief Baba Neil Clarke and Pastor Rob and Pastor Beckie, this faith walk will celebrate the religious roots and joyous spirit of Pinkster, highlighting Ulster County’s shared heritage. TRANSART’s Pinkster: Joy is An Act of Resistance celebration will include re-enactments, drummers, traditional food, vendors, an African dance performance, a panel discussion, youth activities, and more! Pinkster will also highlight the legacy of Sojourner Truth and her participation in the historic event. We greatly appreciate your time & attention, and hope to see you there! Visit  https://www.transartinc.org/pinkster to view the events calendar.

Please feel free to call or email me with any questions, I can be reached at 917-312-0972.

Warm Regards,

Maureen Curry

Pinkster Coordinator