CHARLESTON, W.Va. — West Virginia University’s decision to get involved with Multifest may have saved the event.
“We came in because it seemed as though it was not going to happen and as part of our expanding diversity effort, the recasting the land grant mission, we thought it was very important to come in and prop up this very exciting event,” WVU Vice President for Diversity David Fryson said.
The 25th annual multi-cultural/diversity festival begins Friday evening and runs through Sunday at the state capitol grounds. It will feature music, food and information about different cultures.
Fryson said the partnership becomes a way to show the Charleston community that WVU is not just talking the rhetoric of diversity but is getting on the ground.
“We’re doing that with the West Side Revive, WVU is part of that revival,” according to Fryson.
Headlining performers this year include J.Holiday and Tasha Denae on Friday followed by headliner Doug E Fresh, Kelly Price on Saturday, and Tye Tribbett on Sunday. Throughout the weekend, there will be a variety of other performances. Sunday will also bring a Gospel celebration.
Fryson said there’s no reason why the idea of Multifest couldn’t stretch beyond Charleston one day.
“Wouldn’t it be wonderful to have the Multifest concept and do it statewide,” he said.
Multifest is an alcohol-free event open to everyone. Free parking will be available behind the state capitol. Activities begin at 6 p.m. Friday.