14 Nov 2026
Xenophobia or Afrophobia? Panel
Sankofa Video Books & Cafe
A panel discussion on anti-African hostility featuring four scholars.
Sankofa Videos, Books, & Cafe is a long-standing Black-owned cultural hub in Washington providing space for film, literature, and community gathering
Operating in Washington since 1997, Sankofa Videos, Books, & Cafe is a cultural institution focused on the African Diaspora. The space features an extensive collection of books and DVDs, hosting regular film screenings, book discussions, and poetry open mic nights. Visitors can participate in community workshops, coffee ceremonies, and academic talks. The cafe offers a menu including vegan-friendly items and house-made paninis, while the venue serves as a dedicated gathering place for artists, scholars, and the local community.
Upcoming Events
Listings updated
14 Nov 2026
Spoken Dub Meets Sankofa
Sankofa Cafe & Bookstore·$10
Spoken word, reggae dub and blues with Heru, Lybia'sun and Muata Blues.
15 Nov 2026
Yerusalem Work Book Signing
Sankofa Video Books & Cafe
Poetry reading and book signing for Watery Eyes, moderated by Taahir.
15 Nov 2026
Kente Weaving with Kwasi Asare
Sankofa Video, Books, and Cafe
Hands-on workshop on double shuttle and plain Kente weaving.
15 Nov 2026
CUBA ON OUR MIND: Art & Protest
Sankofa Video & Books
Evening of artistic expression and protest supporting WPFW 89.3 FM.
29 Nov 2026
Kente Weaving with Kwasi Asare
Sankofa Video, Books, and Cafe
Hands-on workshop on double shuttle and plain Kente weaving.
Past Events
12 Nov 2026
Kamau Bobb Book Talk & Signing
AI, racial caste and US education in The Bullwhip's Algorithm.
11 Nov 2026
New Age Poetry Showcase & Open Mic
Sankofa Video Books & Cafe·Free
Black revolutionary poets, music, voices, and a community experience.
7 Nov 2026
Two Decades on the Mic Open Mic
Sankofa Video Books & Cafe·$10
Open mic performances spotlighting The Great Axum; $10 admission.
6 Nov 2026
Ethiopian Art Exhibit & Competition
Sankofa Video & Books & Cafe
Howard EESA and HU Art Club host student art, a competition and community engagement.
1 Nov 2026
Haiti on Our Mind
Sankofa Video Books & Cafe
Fundraiser evening of artistic expression and protest with Haile Gerima.
31 Oct 2026
Ngugi wa Thiong’o Film Screening
Followed by a talk with Ndirangu Wachanga and Carole Boyce Davies.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Sankofa Videos, Books, & Cafe hosts a variety of cultural programming, including film screenings, book discussions, poetry showcases, live music, and community-focused workshops.
Sankofa Videos, Books, & Cafe is located at 2714 Georgia Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001.
Most events at Sankofa Videos, Books, & Cafe are available to RSVP directly through the venue's official website.
Yes, Sankofa Videos, Books, & Cafe features a cafe serving house-made paninis, vegan-friendly juices, and wraps that guests can enjoy on the patio.
The New Age Poetry Showcase and open mic are held at Sankofa Videos, Books, & Cafe on the second Wednesday of every month.