Youngstown Celebrates African-American Culture as Kwanzaa Kicks Off Friday

Kwanzaa begins this Friday in Youngstown. This marks an annual celebration. It honors African-American culture. The festivities run from December 26 to January 1. They culminate in a communal feast. This feast is called Karamu. Kwanzaa was founded by activist Maulana Karenga. It started in 1966. The holiday draws on African harvest traditions. Millions of Americans celebrate Kwanzaa each year. Estimates range from 500,000 to 2 million. This year’s news includes several community events. They focus on Kwanzaa’s core principles.

Understanding Kwanzaa’s Roots

Kwanzaa is a cultural holiday. It is not a religious one. Maulana Karenga created it. His goal was to offer an alternative. He wanted Black people to celebrate themselves. He also wanted them to honor their history. The holiday celebrates heritage and community. It is deeply rooted in african culture. Kwanzaa’s name comes from Swahili. It means “first fruits.” This reflects harvest traditions. The celebration itself did not exist in Africa. It was created in the United States. It emerged during the Black Power movement. It aims for cultural revolution. This revolution provides identity and direction.

The Seven Principles of Kwanzaa

Each day of Kwanzaa honors a principle. These are called the Nguzo Saba. They guide personal and community growth. The principles are Umoja, Kujichagulia, Ujima, Ujamaa, Nia, Kuumba, and Imani. Umoja means unity. It focuses on family and community. Kujichagulia is self-determination. It means defining ourselves. Ujima is collective work and responsibility. It emphasizes community building together. Ujamaa focuses on cooperative economics. It supports Black-owned businesses. Nia is purpose. It is about community restoration. Kuumba means creativity. It encourages beautifying communities. Imani is faith. It is about believing in people. These principles strengthen the african-american community. They foster solidarity and pride.

Youngstown’s Kwanzaa Schedule

Youngstown is preparing for its Kwanzaa events. The Mahoning Valley will host several gatherings. These events highlight the holiday’s principles. Umoja (Unity) kicks off the celebrations. It happens Friday, December 26. The event is at 6 p.m. New Bethel Baptist Church hosts it. The church is on Hillman Street. The celebration includes music and dancing. It features the Harambee Youth Organization. A Karamu feast is planned. The Rev. Kenneth Simon leads the service.

Kujichagulia (Self-determination) is observed next. It takes place Saturday, December 27. The Newport Library hosts it. It runs from 2 to 4 p.m. This event features Joe Napier. He is a local Juneteenth coordinator. Attendees can share stories of self-determination. A book exchange is also planned. A writing workshop will follow.

Ujima (Collective work and responsibility) is honored on Sunday. It is at 3:30 p.m. Beulah Baptist Church hosts this event. The church is on Sherwood Avenue. Music and cultural expression will be featured. The Beulah Baptist Youth Department participates. Vincent Shivers will emcee.

Nia (Purpose) is the focus on Tuesday, December 30. It begins at 6 p.m. United Returning Citizens hosts the event. It is located on Belmont Avenue. A film screening is planned. The movie is “Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome.” It explores its consequences on Youngstown’s Black Community. This event is sponsored by several local groups.

A Celebration of Heritage and Hope

These events offer a chance to connect. They celebrate african heritage. They also build community bonds. Kwanzaa provides a space for reflection. It is a time for cultural affirmation. For the african-american community, it is vital. It reaffirms identity and history. This news brings attention to local observances. These celebrations are important for all americans. They showcase the strength of culture. They highlight the power of unity. Kwanzaa’s message resonates deeply. It offers hope for the future. It encourages collective strength. The community looks forward to these events.