The Kwanzaa Coalition, a cornerstone of cultural enrichment in Rochester for over 30 years, is gearing up for its annual seven-day festivities. The theme of the celebration this year is Kwanzaa 2023: Harambee Let’s Pull Together. Founded by Dr. David Anderson, the Rochester coalition is dedicated to presenting Kwanzaa to the community, fostering a sense of unity and cultural awareness.
The Coalition stresses the importance of bringing the community together to honor and witness the seven principles of Kwanzaa in action – unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith. Individuals, businesses and the wider community are encouraged to get involved and connect with one another at the Kwanzaa celebrations.
Kwanzaa, initiated in 1966 nationally by Dr. Maulana Karenga, is the premier cultural celebration of the African American community. The Coalition aims to highlight and nurture the positive impact in the community by raising cultural awareness through events at six different locations each year. Held in libraries, museums and cozy community spaces, these events enhance the reach and accessibility of Kwanzaa celebrations.
Activities include:
•UMOJA – December 26, 4 to 7 p.m., City Hall Atrium, 30 Church Street, Rochester
•KUJICHAGULIA – December 27, 4 to 7 p.m., Phillis Wheatley Library, 33 Dr. Samuel McCree Way, Rochester
•UJIMA – December 28, 5 to 8 p.m., Memorial Art Gallery, 500 University Avenue, Rochester
•UJAMAA – December 29, 4 to 7 p.m., The IdentoGO, 803 West Avenue, Rochester
•NIA – December 30, 4 to 7 p.m., Rundel Library, 115 South Avenue, Rochester
•KUUMBA – December 31, 6 to 9 p.m., Montgomery Center, 10 Cady Street, Rochester
•IMANI – January 1, all day, celebrate at home with family and friends.
“Kwanzaa intersects everyone. It is a sharing of positive culture, especially important for Black people,” says Delores Jackson Radney, member of the Kwanzaa Coalition.
Looking forward, the Coalition aims to increase Kwanzaa awareness through community workshops and expanded outreach to urban classrooms. For more information, visit the Rochester Kwanzaa Coalition Facebook page.
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