Amidst the everyday changing landscape are moments that return us to our values, our families, our friends and our communities. While the celebration of special moments may look different, it is our ability to evolve in practice that brings forth warmth and joy.
This November at NC State, we will practice and celebrate Joyous Kwanzaa. Kwanzaa is a holiday celebrated within Pan-African culture from Dec. 26 – Jan. 1. Developed by professor, activist and author Maulana Ndabezitha Karenga, Ph.D., Kwanzaa centers seven principles that are practiced daily and culminates in a feast. Karenga stated that the intention of Kwanzaa was to give Pan-Africans or people of African descent an alternative to the dominant practices of society and an opportunity to celebrate themselves and their history.
The African American Cultural Center (AACC) has historically celebrated the feast of faith, Karamu Ya Imani earlier due to the holiday break. This year, the AACC invites the campus and surrounding community to join us in the practice of the seven principles of Kwanzaa. From Nov. 4 – 13 we will provide information via social media about the multiple ways you can practice the principles of Kwanzaa and build your own feast of faith.
We are looking forward to storytelling, learning more about area Black businesses, discussing the Black futures, and more. For more information, see go.ncsu.edu/kwanzaa to learn about the special programs/events and how to register. Follow us on social media at @aaculturalcenter on Instagram and @ncsuaacc on Twitter and Facebook.
Start now by sharing your favorite Kwanzaa memory or Kwanzaa 2020 look to be showcased at the Karamu Ya Imani ceremony on Nov. 13.
Share Memories
Share your favorite personal Kwanzaa memory or NC State Kwanzaa memory at go.ncsu.edu/kwanzaa_memory. Deadline: Nov. 10.
Share Your Kwanzaa 2020 Look
Send us a preview of your Kwanzaa outfit and look to be showcased at the Karamu Ya Imani ceremony. We will also feature you on our Instagram and Twitter during the ceremony. Submit until Nov. 12 at go.ncsu.edu/kwanzaa_glowups.
For More Information
Contact the African American Cultural Center at aaculturalcenter@ncsu.edu with any questions.
Photo: NC State community members celebrate Kwanzaa in 2016.
Angela Gay is director of the African American Cultural Center.