• By Susan deGuzman
  • Posted Tuesday, February 1, 2022

Traditional Medicine in the African Atlantic Diaspora

Join us on Tuesday, Feb. 8 at 6 p.m. as we learn about the many African healing practices that were transplanted to the Americas over the past 500 years. Many kinds of diagnostic methods, pharmacology, surgery, and therapeutic techniques were developed on the continent. These practices were invariably linked to African spirituality in all its diverse forms. Illustrated by authentic objects from the Lam Museum of Anthropology of Wake Forest University, Dr. Andrew Gurstelle, museum director and specialist in the history and archaeology of West Africa, will discuss how people in the past maintained health and wellness, and how their descendants transformed these ideas in North and South America. This program addresses the subject of Black health and wellness as part of the library’s recognition of Black History Month.

Registration is strongly recommended to secure a spot as seating is limited. Mask and social distancing protocols will be in place. To register, email Sue at deguzmse@forsyth.cc or call the branch at 336-703-2940.



A medicine (cigbe) pot, created by a Nupe artist in Nigeria, likely around the mid-20th century. Before being purchased for an art collection and eventually donated to the Lam Museum, the pot was intended to mix and hold medicinal tinctures, beer, or ritual offerings. In any case, the substance was used to both physically heal the petitioner's illness and appease the spirits responsible for it. Image provided by the Wake Forest University Lam Museum of Anthropology.


Traditional Medicine in the African Atlantic Diaspora
Tuesday, Feb. 8 at 6 p.m.
Lewisville Branch Auditorium
6490 Shallowford Rd
Lewisville, NC 27023

This program is recommended for adults. All Forsyth County Public Library programs are free and open to the public. For more information, email Sue at deguzmse@forsyth.cc or call the branch at 336-703-2940.

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