African American Wedding, New York, NY, 1984

Abdel and Dyane, who are black Muslims, are married by a judge in a unique ceremony created by Abdel, using traditional elements. The bride's hair has been braided into a lattice studded with gold beads, which she wears as a veil over her face. In Africa the beads would be cowrie shells, symbols of wealth. They marry during Kwanzaa, a seven-day African American holiday celebrated since 1966.

Katrina Thomas's notes: African American celebrations keep assorted traditions, dating from the days of slavery, or improvised from tribal Africa. These include jumping a broom, wearing African cloth or dress, executing various ritual dances, eating special foods, and doing whatever else a couple thinks can be added to a western wedding that is important to their culture.