Lauryn Hill Says Her Actions Speak Through Ambitious Diaspora Festival

Lauryn Hill connects art, community and diaspora in London before a major Fugees anniversary performance with Wyclef Jean.

Lauryn Hill turned a massive London turnout into a statement about action, community and the wide reach of the African diaspora Wednesday.

Thousands gathered at 180 Studios for a Diaspora Calling! merchandise signing, where Hill reunited with Wyclef Jean before Friday’s festival.

“I am in such a state of embodiment with respect to what’s happening that I’m not sure I have the words. Right now, I have action. My actions are speaking for me through the work itself,” Hill said.

Hill and Wyclef met attendees while signing albums, memorabilia and merchandise honoring the 30th anniversary of the Fugees’ The Score.

“It was deeply moving to see so many people come out and to share that moment with the community. Seeing Lauren Halsey’s artwork presented across the iconic Piccadilly Lights was powerful,” Hill added.

The celebration later moved to Piccadilly Circus, where Hill addressed another crowd before the public artwork filled London’s famous digital screens.

Hill curated Lauren Halsey’s new CIRCA film, which placed Black imagination and cultural memory across the Piccadilly Lights.

“Lauren and I have collaborated creatively for many years, and her practice speaks to community, imagination and the way culture can hold and reflect our stories. The African diaspora is not a monolith, but our histories, traditions and creative expressions belong in conversation with one another. Her work will also be part of the wider cultural program and marketplace at Diaspora Calling! this Friday. Bringing music, art and community together in this way is central to the purpose of the festival,” Hill said.

Hill conceived the event as more than a concert, with visual art, fashion, film, food, wellness programs and diaspora-owned businesses sharing space.

Hill and Wyclef will perform The Score in full, extending a reunion that AllHipHop previously covered during her anniversary tour.

Erykah Badu, YG Marley, Zion Marley, Giggs and Fireboy DML complete a lineup spanning Hip-Hop, reggae, soul, R&B and Afrobeats.

Getty Images documented Wednesday’s turnout, while organizers also released Leory Boateng’s event photographs and broader festival press materials.

Hill’s official site confirms the festival, while organizers offer tickets, updates and media accreditation before the event.

Diaspora Calling! opens its marketplace, gallery, film and food programs at noon Friday, August 7, before music begins at 4 p.m.

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