The Cajun French Music
Association non-profit organization comprised of Cajuns and non-Cajuns
whose purpose is to promote and preserve, not only Cajun music,
but also various aspects of the Acadian Heritage. The CFMA was
founded in Basile, Louisiana in November of 1984 with Harry LaFleur
of Eunice as its founder. Since its beginning by less than 30 persons,
it has grown to a membership of approximately 2,000 families serving
seven Chapters in Louisiana and three Chapters in the Cajun Region
of Southeast Texas.
Most of the local members are grass roots Cajuns who want to
preserve their heritage by teaching the authentic Cajun language
and the traditions of their Acadian ancestry. Chapters usually
sponsor lessons on how to play Cajun fiddle, accordion, guitar
and dance lessons. Most Chapters offer classes on how to speak
Cajun French. Some members donate their time in classrooms to
help teach pupils language and other cultural aspects of Cajun
culture. All Chapters sponsor local Cajun Music and Dance Festivals.
The National
Governing Body is comprised of two board members from each
Chapter and serve to regulate and oversee the constitutional
and by-law guidelines. This body sponsors the "Le
Cajun" National Cajun Music Awards, held the 3rd weekend
of August annually, in Lafayette, LA. In addition, the Governing
Body sponsors many other National Projects in education, heritage,
dance, monthly newsletters, etc., which are ongoing projects
to preserve our Cajun Culture. |