On July 6, eleven reggae and reggae-inspired musicians will join (artistic) forces for the 10th annual Carifest C.A.R.E.S. (Compassionate Artists Recognizing Entertainment Solutions) concert at the USTA National Tennis Center in Flushing, Queens. A portion of all proceeds will go towards the Keep a Child Alive (KCA) organization, which helps children along with their families access life-saving AIDS drugs and support for survival. KCA focuses on AIDS awareness and gives 100 percent of public donations to their cause.

Reggae Carifest, first held in 1998, was launched as way to unite and promote awareness of Caribbean and West Indian Culture in the United States. This year the event will feature a wider array of reggae artists, including Grammy award winner Lee “Scratch” Perry and Matisyahu.

“This year’s event promises to be enlightening and educational, highlighting the many things we as a people can do, to bring about change,” festival organizer D’Niscio Brooks says. “We are focusing on the roots aspect of the music. Showcasing peace, love and joy in hard times for a people journeying to a better day.”

The festival welcomes all genuine cultural expressions and aesthetics, and “is received by an eclectic group of people hailing from all walks of life.” If this year’s festival is at all like past festivals, Reggae Carifest should be a merry gathering— a celebration of art and community—with the ante upped for a worthwhile cause.

For more information on the 10th annual Reggae Carifest, visit: WWW.CARIFESTCARES.COM

- Erica Block