Voices Journal Volume 2020: 1-2

"Kumbaya" evolved from the African American spiritual "Come by Here." A transcription by John Bocher, Jr., published in 1955, became the standard version. Howecer, it was widely believed to have been brought from Africa by a missionary. This article traces the origins of the most common origin legends, then looks at those that influenced behavior. It concludes with comments on the persisting belief in an African genesis.

The author introduces the concenpt of dendroglyphs and the 1930's work of W.Dixon who carved on five separate beech trees on Staten Island, NY. Dendroglyphs, or tree carvings, are an ephemeral art form that has been documented to be practiced by Haudenosaunee tribes in the 17th century and by Europeans arriving in North America.

Folk singer, Stanley Ransom, composes a song for Coronavirus, to the tune of "Days of '49".

Community anchors - the organziations that communities create in response to the conditions in whih their members live - are incubators for vibrant cultural activity and are critical to the cultural ecology of American cities. The authors identify three organizational typologies - religious institutions, social clubs and mutual aid societies, and small businesses.

The columnist, Nancy Solomon, reflects on the effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic and restaurant closure on Long Island fishermen and baymen.

A short story based on the author's childhood in Jamaica.

The author, a storyteller, provides a transcript of his storytelling performance at the Liars Contest at the 2019 Susquehanna Folk Festival.

The third of three parts in Eric Ball's essay trilogy, "Homemade Music A Family Tree." Using the trope of music, the author reflects on his grandfather and his craft.

The author's search for a humorous song, collected by Frank and Anne Warner from Lena Bourne Fish who was born in the Adirondack region.

A photo essay on wild edibles.

North African dancer and teaching artist, Esraa Warda, reports on her fieldwork in Algerian communities in Brooklyn, New York.