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Kwanzaa (/ˈkwɑːn.zə/) is a week-long celebration held in the United States and in other nations of the West African diaspora in the Americas. The celebration honors African heritage in African-American culture, and is observed from December 26 to January 1, culminating in a feast and gift-giving.

 

KWANZAA: 4th Night - Ujamaa
Friday, December 29, 2017

EVENT PROGRAM

Welcome & Introduction
Lurlene Shamsud-Din, REAL Program Director, LifeWorks Northwest

Reflection: Importance of Cultural Traditions
Nkenge Harmon Johnson, President & CEO, Urban League

Libation & Storytelling
Michael Grice, Co-Founder, World Arts Foundation

Mother Kwanzaa
Joyce Harris, Historian and Educator

Musical Performance
Yugen Rashad & Dialog, Portland All-Star Jazz Musicians

Special Guest:
Paul Knauls, Sr. - Mayor of Northeast Portland

NGUZO SABA (Seven Principles)

  • Umoja (Unity): December 26
  • Kujichagulia (Self-Determination): December 27
  • Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility): December 28
  • Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics): December 29
  • Nia (Purpose): December 30
  • Kuumba (Creativity): December 31
  • Imani (Faith): January 1