Nyumburu Cultural Center. Nyumburu is a Swahili word which means 'freedomhouse". Nyumburu's mission is to enhance the knowledge and appreciation of African American culture and heritage through creative programs and activities.

This facility is the first of its kind in the United States. Its special design was inspired by the traditional art and architecture of West Africa. The West African coast is the region from which the descendants of most present day African Americans came. Architectural treatments reflect a wealth of West African traditions. Cultures from the Sahel to the forest are represented. Each decoratve brick and pavinq pattern on the facility has a distinctive meaning. These patterns are based on motifs from traditional Ghananian Kente and Andinkra cloths.

See it at the University of Maryland