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Jamaica Street Renamed After Founder of Afrikan Poetry Theatre

 The intersection of Jamaica Avenue and 176th Street has been co-named “John Watusi Branch Way
The intersection of Jamaica Avenue and 176th Street has been co-named “John Watusi Branch Way" during a ceremony on Saturday, June 25.
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Courtesy of Dannek Miller's office

QUEENS — A poet who left a lasting impact on his Jamaica community was honored with a street co-naming just steps away from a theater he founded.

John Watusi Branch, The co-founder of the Afrikan Poetry Theatre who died in December 2013, was recognized for his work with a street sign at the intersection of Jamaica Avenue and 176th Street.

“John Watusi Branch was an innovator who brought great arts and culture to Southeast Queens,” said Councilman Daneek Miller, who sponsored the street co-naming.

The theater, founded in 1976 by Watusi Branch and Yusef Waliyaya, has become a popular cultural center and resource that brings together local poets and artists performing jazz, funk and African rhythms.

It hosts numerous lectures, poetry slams and concerts. Over the years, it has also organized a number of trips to Africa for local residents and provided many jobs through its Summer Youth Employment Program.

“This incredible institution provides jobs for our youth in the summer, local entertainment for families, all while recognizing the Afrikan diaspora, encouraging new members of the community to remember their roots,” Miller said.

(Courtesy of Councilman Daneek Miller's office)