Following much criticism provoked by the selection of Mélissa Lavergne as speaker for the 36th Festival Nuits d’Afrique, the Quebec musician chose to step down from this role on Friday. He will not be replaced, said the festival founded by Lamine Touré, which responded to the controversy.
On Tuesday, Nuits d’Afrique announced that percussionist Mélissa Lavergne, also known as the show’s co-host Beautiful and Bumwill be the speaker for his next festival in July.
This choice has caused controversy on social networks, Mélissa Lavergne is white and does not come from the African continent. In 2020 and 2021, radio host Myriam Fehmiu and singer Corneille will be consecutive spokespersons for Nuits d’Afrique.
Rearrange the shot
In light of the reactions my appointment will bring in the final hours, it seems important to me to rearrange the plan and change the nature of our collaboration so as not to increase the pain and misunderstanding of a community we would rather honor.explained the musician in a written statement sent to Radio-Canada.
Mélissa Lavergne also explained why she agreed to be the speaker for the musical event.
As far as I can remember, my musical experiences have always been associated with Productions Nuits d’Afrique. In the mythical Balattou I often looked forward to the time of my presentations with the kind [Lamine] Toure. I was young and I wanted to see everything, hear everything, understand everything, play everything. Touré opened his arms to me, as one welcomed a cousin, an aunt, a friend, a sisterhe says.
As far back as I can remember, I have always loved the Nuits d’Afrique family dearly and I have always admired them as well. Voluntarily and generously, he has worked tirelessly for thirty-six years now so that the rhythms of the world resonate in our homes, behind this deep desire for members. of different cultural communities to meet.he added.
Lamine Touré’s reaction
Productions Nuits d’Afrique, which organizes the festival, has accepted Mélissa Lavergne’s departure and decided not to call on another personality to replace her.
Mélissa was already there, playing percussion at the very beginning of the Festival. He was the son of Nuits d’Afrique. I can’t see the color of it. I see a musician with a heart that is part of the great community of world music artists in Montrealexplained, through a press release, Lamine Touré, the president and founder of Productions Nuits d’Afrique.
Music brings people together, allows them to share feelings. It opens up horizons. This is what I always wanted and this is still what I want, he continued. I understand people who see a lack of sensitivity in our choice, but we all seek the same goal: a more inclusive and open world.
Productions Nuits d’Afrique will hold a press conference on Tuesday afternoon to unveil the program for the next festival.
Source: Radio-Canada
