We have reached an unprecedented time in our world. The impact of COVID 19 remains incalculable and in responding to this crisis, borders have been shut and isolation is the only way to contain and treat the devastating impact. We send our best wishes to all who are in the throes of this crisis for safety, and health. This, even though we don’t know when, will pass. Festivals such as Afro_Vibes have ensured the exchange of art and ideas towards a better, compassionate, accessible and kinder world. And while physical crossing has to be curtailed for now, the Afro_Vibes Festival commits itself to continuing to cross all kinds of borders, and to facilitate a deeper understanding of culture across oceans and continents. Jay Pather.