By Williamena Kwapo | OBSERVER Staff Writer
Umoja Productions African Dance and Drums Company hosted its annual Children’s Kwanzaa Celebration on Dec. 30 at the Roberts Family Development Center.
This cherished tradition is part of a more than 30-year history of local Kwanzaa celebrations. It aims to teach children Kwanzaa’s seven principles while fostering connections across generations.
Kwanzaa, founded in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga, a CSU Long Beach professor, is built on the Nguzo Saba, or seven principles of African culture: Umoja (unity), Kujichagulia (self-determination), Ujima (collective work and responsibility), Ujamaa (cooperative economics), Nia (purpose), Kuumba (creativity), and Imani (faith). The Children’s Kwanzaa Celebration brings these values to life through storytelling, dance, and drumming.
“If we don’t teach it to the children, we lose it,” said Maia Morton, the event’s organizer. “This celebration helps keep our heritage alive by instilling these principles in young minds and encouraging them to practice them in meaningful ways.”
During the event, children engaged in creative activities such as crafting figures from clothespins, encouraging hands-on learning and imaginative expression. Performers from Melanin Day School Academy showcased traditional dances, highlighting African American cultural heritage and artistry.
The celebration also provided a communal feast, ensuring families could enjoy a nourishing meal together. In addition, a vendor offered affordable gifts, emphasizing the importance of community support as with the principle of Ujamaa.
By blending education, creativity, and communal support, the Children’s Kwanzaa Celebration beautifully embodies the spirit of Kwanzaa, particularly the principle of “Nia” (purpose), which was this year’s focus.
As the season’s final Kwanzaa event, the gathering served as part of Umoja Productions’ efforts to unite the community in honoring its heritage and values. The celebration echoed the importance of passing cultural traditions to the next generation, strengthening bonds, and ensuring these principles remain a guiding force for years to come.
Umoja Productions remains dedicated to inspiring future generations to uphold the values of the Nguzo Saba, ensuring the preservation of their vibrant cultural heritage.
Support for this Sacramento OBSERVER article was provided to Word In Black (WIB) by the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative. WIB is a collaborative of 10 Black-owned media that includes print and digital partners.