Dozens gathered in Indianapolis to celebrate the first night of Kwanzaa, a holiday observed by many African Americans to honor their heritage. The annual Umoja Village celebration featured performances, arts, crafts, food, and a tribute to elders. Kwanzaa is a week-long celebration centered around seven core principles: unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith.
INDIANAPOLIS — Thursday marked the first night of Kwanzaa , a holiday largely celebrated by African American s to honor and connect with African heritage. An annual gathering in the Circle City brought dozens together to celebrate.“ Kwanzaa comes from a harvest celebration from West Africa,” said Sibeko Jywanza, a member of the Indianapolis Kwanzaa Committee.They’ve put on the celebrations for more than 45 years.
“My family all comes to this event year after year, so I thought it was good to introduce them to Kwanzaa,” Goens said. “We’re teaching him what this is, what the candles mean and how many days there are. We light one each day,” he said.For West African native Aboubakar Allal, this also holiday means continuing his parent’s legacy by sharing some of his culture crafted through his jewelry.“Back home I used to do it, so when I come to the United States, I continue doing it,” he told WRTV.
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