The resolution celebrates Funda Fest 27, a two-week event organized by the Rhode Island Black Storytellers (RIBS) from January 17th to 26th, 2025. Founded in 1998, RIBS is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting Black storytelling through performances and educational experiences. Funda Fest, which means "to learn or to teach" in Zulu, serves as the flagship program of RIBS and has reached over 120,000 people by showcasing a diverse array of Black artists and storytellers. This year's festival aims to provide a platform for Black individuals to share their narratives and promote awareness of their history, values, and traditions that are often overlooked in mainstream literature.
The House of Representatives of the State of Rhode Island expresses its support for Funda Fest 27 and encourages all Rhode Islanders to engage with the festival's offerings. The resolution calls on the community to listen, experience, and learn about generational Black history through storytelling, emphasizing the importance of cultural preservation and education. Additionally, the Secretary of State is directed to transmit a certified copy of the resolution to RIBS, further acknowledging the organization's contributions to the cultural landscape of Rhode Island.