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Kwanzaa Program

Name: Kwanzaa Program

Description: Kwanzaa Program at EPA Library

Story: Kwanzaa – It’s a matter of principles------- On the third day of Kwanzaa, the principle of Ujima (Cooperative Work and Responsibility) was celebrated at East Palo Alto (EPA) Library. Kwanzaa, which is a celebration of family, community and culture by and for people of African ancestry, commences on December 26 and ends on January 1. On each day, one of the 7 principles or Nguzo Saba is introduced. The 7 principles are Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self-Determination), Ujima (Cooperative Work and Responsibility), Umamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), Kuumba (Creativity) and Imani (Faith). Kwanzaa or first fruits of the harvest is expressed using Swahili language for the principles and symbols. Established in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga, Kwanzaa is observed by more the 18 million people worldwide. For the Kwanzaa event, EPA Library was fortunate to have EPA community leaders involved. Prior to the event, Honorable Vice-Mayor A. Peter Evans took time from his busy schedule to install a Kwanzaa display in the Children’s area of the Library. Next, Poetess Chache Kalamu, an East Palo Alto community artist/activist, graciously offered to assist in coordinated the event. Not only did Ms. Kalamu serve as the mistress of ceremonies, but also she helped with pre-program planning. Speaking to an intimate audience of 28 people, Keisha Evans, wife of East Palo Alto Vice-Mayor A. Peter Evans and co-owner African City Alive, engaged the crowd in her discussion of the principle of the day, Ujima (Cooperative Work and Responsibility). Students eagerly responded with their real life examples of cooperative work aka chores in the home. Keisha stressed that fact that these principles are applicable in our daily lives and transcend cultural boundaries. Indeed, this was an important message as we had a multicultural audience. Next, Kwanzaa greeting cards were made by the children as part of the arts and crafts portion of the program followed by a hearty spread of delectable Jamaican food. Funded by a generous grant from Peninsula Community Foundation (PCF), EPA was able to offer Jamaican cuisine and give gifts to the attendees. Jerk chicken, roasted vegetables, plantains, rice and peas, bammy, corn festivals and Jamaican beef patties from Back A Yard Caribbean American Grill were enjoyed by the guests. Additionally, each attendee received a gift or Zawadi from Africa City Alive. The spirit of Ujima or Cooperative Work and Responsibility was present before the program with students offering to help with set-up to the end of the program when attendees offered to assist with the clean-up. Ujima was practiced fully with EPA library staff and patrons and is the over-arching principle which made this program successful and truly enjoyable. ---Submitted by Sereptha Strong, Public Services Librarian, East Palo Alto Library----

Keisha Evans engages the audience

Kwanzaa Display