Oak Park’s Kwanzaa celebration drew almost 200 people to the Main Library on Monday, December 30, and was a resounding success.
With music, dance, crafts, artwork, food, and ceremony, the Black American harvest celebration “truly captured the spirit of community and cultural richness that Kwanzaa represents,” said Manager of Community Engagement Chibuike Enyia.
Seven principles
Donna Callender, artistic director of Kuumba Kids Dance, served as the evening’s host. As she explained to Wednesday Journal before the event, families and communities come together during Kwanzaa (December 26 to January 1) to celebrate seven principles.
These principles, represented by seven candles, are Umoja (unity), Kujichagulia (self-determination), Ujima (collective work and responsibility), Ujamaa (cooperative economics), Nia (purpose), Kuumba (creativity), and Imani (faith).
‘Energy & passion’
That evening, the community enjoyed music by the Snake Doctors and Hasani Cannon, whose “incredible performances brought so much energy and passion to the celebration,” Enyia said. “The audience was captivated by the beating of the drums and authentic sounds bringing joy to all. Hasani’s education on the drums and progressions was fantastic.”
‘Already looking forward to next year’
Enyia also praised the artists and vendors who brought vibrant, unique crafts and goods that gave attendees “a chance to connect with the spirit of Kwanzaa in a tangible way.”
“We were truly touched by the positive attitude and collaborative spirit that everyone brought to the event,” he added. “We are already looking forward to next year’s Kwanzaa celebration!”
See more photos from the event »
