History

In February 2020, Jessica Norwood brought together organizational and business leaders from across the United States to Africatown for a healing circle. In that sacred space, women of color shared their lived experiences in the “new America.” It was here that a bold idea emerged—to create a new legacy for people of the African Diaspora, one rooted in resilience, unity, and global connection.

By July 2021, that vision grew. Guided by the principle of Ujamaa—cooperative economics—a historic exchange took place as a delegation from Suriname traveled to Africatown. This gathering united national and local leaders, business owners, and community advocates, all committed to economic development that transcends borders. The conversations focused on linking Africatown’s growth to trade, entrepreneurship, and shared community development projects across the U.S. and the Global South.

Building on that momentum, the organization is now acquiring land in Africatown to establish a business center—created in the spirit of ubuntu, the African philosophy of shared humanity: “I am because we are.” This center will serve as a hub for economic empowerment, cultural exchange, and innovation.

In February 2022, Africatown and Suriname celebrated a milestone: the signing of their first international trade agreement, a direct outcome of these efforts. As part of the agreement, Surinamese artisans will craft hand-carved wood pieces to be sold in Africatown—symbolizing both cultural exchange and sustainable economic opportunity.

This journey is just the beginning. What started as a circle of healing has grown into a movement—connecting communities across continents to honor the past while building a shared future.

Mission

The Port of Africatown is a registered 501 c3, community development corporation, focused on growing business opportunities and trade in the Africatown Region and throughout the diaspora.