The Reconnection Ceremony is the emotional high point for many who attend the annual World Igbo Festival of Arts and Culture. For some, the Ceremony is the final step in a quest to discover and reconnect with relatives separated by time and distance dating back to the slave trade era.

Since the forced migration of their ancestors from Africa to America, many African Americans have yearned to know more about their roots. Now, thanks to advances in genetic mapping, many are finding answers that lead them to specific towns and living relatives in Igbo land.

When long lost relatives finally meet and latent connections are reawakened – as happens during the Reconnection – should anyone be surprised when tears of joy and other emotions are finally let loose?

We highly recommend participation in this program.

Photos from the 2015 Reconnection Ceremony