Inejnema, a native of Chicago admits, after working with Inner City he still finds himself engaged in an exceptional experience. “The alumni that I’ve meet from Inner City are names that everybody has come to know. The experience has been nothing short of educational. It’s been nothing short of fascination and even some moments of awe.”
Out of the Ashes: From Multi-Culturalism to Diversity, 1965 – 2015, was the theme for the 50th Anniversary. With a multimillion dollar renovation of the Vision Theater on the drawing board, according to Inejnema, Inner City is as active today as it was in 1965. “As Inner City grows, I’ll be deeply involved in any youth programming that they have. Not only will the archival library be a library space to store media, it will also be a performance center.”
Employed with the City of Los Angeles, Department of Cultural Affairs, Inejnema, a director with Vision Theater, continues to foster the hopes and aspirations of young actors, singers and performers waiting in the wings. “I’m optimistic not only about the future of Inner City, but I’m optimistic about the future of the youth knowing the legacy and history that is already established.”
According to Bikbaye, the vision of Jackson and Cannon was at the forefront of the culture and art revolution throughout the nation’s urban centers following tumultuous riot and civil unrest of the late 60’s. “Inner City was the first multi cultural performing arts center in the country. It came at a time that allowed all of those young people who were affected by the Watts Riots, it gave them a place to go to express all of that stuff that was inside of them. The anger and frustration. Inner City gave them a playground.”
Inner City Cultural Center 50th Anniversary encompassed two days of activities, panels, and an awards show. Having a firm grip on the history of Inner City, Inejnema remained hopeful that celebration attendees would be encouraged about the future of the storied organization. “I want people to leave here knowing that it was done before and that it can be done again. Secondly, I want people to feel the urgency to connect with the elders. I want them to walk away feeling a sense of obligation, not only to Inner City but to the legacy. And allow me to be a part of the renaissance of Inner City Cultural Center.”
