KWANZAA

KWANZAA

2016 events

A schedule of the public celebrations of the Kwanzaa holiday in Youngstown. Kwanzaa, created in 1966, is celebrated between Dec. 26 and Jan. 1. It is an African-American holiday that unites family and friends to pay tribute to their cultural heritage.

Umoja (unity): 5:30 p.m. Dec. 26 at New Bethel Baptist Church, 1507 Hillman St. The event will feature music, dancing, black vendors and cultural expression. The Harambee Youth and the karamu, or feast, also will be included. Participants are asked to bring a covered dish and eat at the community table.

Ujima (collective work and responsibility): 6 p.m. Dec. 28 at Beulah Baptist Church, 570 Sherwood Ave. The event will include gospel celebration, liturgical and mime dancing and cultural celebration with refreshments.

Nia (purpose): 6 p.m. Dec. 30 at Mount Sinai Baptist Church, 328 S. Forest Ave. The event will include cultural and gospel celebration with mime dancing and refreshments.

Miscellaneous: The other principles of Kwanzaa are Kujichagulia (self-determination); Kuumba (creativity); Ujamaa (collective economics); and Imani (faith). They should be celebrated at home during the week.

Information: Contact Lynnette or Ron Miller at 330-559-6030, 330-518-7141, or 330-788-8655.