Kongo was founded in 1995, to create healing spaces in Guantanamo and later conducted workshops at INS (immigration) detention in the U.S. Kongo works with various community organizations to provide activities that include, music healing workshops, family drum circles, community arts forums and performances. Kongo’s videos were selected to be screened at the USSF 2010 Film Festival in Detroit.

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“Kongo has worked with us and used their  skills in culture and art to support our work in the fight for Domestic Worker rights.  We have found that having Kongo participate in our actions provides an energy and strength for motivating our members and the public to continue the often long and arduous work ahead. Kongo offers a powerful force for supporting our messages……there is a need for an organization like Kongo that provides essential support to ensure that art and culture are involved in the struggles for justice in community.”

Ai-jen Poo, Director                                                                                                      National Domestic Workers Alliance

“As someone who teaches from a visual arts perspective, I found that Kongo’s use of music and performance reached some objectives that static art forms often fall short of achieving.  Everyone was engaged in one way or another.  The immediate benefits of the workshops were apparent as participants laughed, sang along, and moved to the rhythms. The RRP Art Program looks forward to collaborating with Kongo on future workshops at BCYC (immigration detention) that allow for further exploration of the healing and community building potentials of drumming. “

Jen Esposito, Director                                                                                                 Refugee Resource Project Art Program

“In New York City, we have mobilized rallies and marches annually in Manhattan to bring optimal visibility to the protest.  The driving beat of Kongo’s song and drums has been pivotal in drawing the attention of passersby and energizing those attending the protest.”

Kathie Cheng                                                                                                                    October 22 Coalition to Stop Police Brutality