The 2012 Smithsonian Folklife Festival opened with poignant words and diverse musical performances. Watch how the three Festival programs were introduced by Kathleen A. Merrigan, deputy secretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture; Camille Akeju, director of the Anacostia Community Museum; and John Lewis.

Filmed: Ashley Duncan, Claire Gilbert, and Michael Headley
Edited: Michael Headley