Kwanzaa 2011
The Congress of Black Women of Manitoba Inc. hosts Kwanzaa anually in December. Following Kwanzaa observances, attendees share in a cultural meal and enjoy opportunities for fellowship.
"African Canadians and Blacks around the world celebrate Kwanzaa, a cultural holiday, from December 26 to January 1. Celebrants commemorate the history and culture, and the survival, struggles, resilience and triumphs of Black families and communities. Kwanzaa was born within the struggle of African Americans during the civil rights era.
In 1966, Malauna Karenga, an American professor of Black studies, devised and held the first Kwanzaa celebrations in North America. The word Kwanzaa is taken from the Ki-Swahili language, spoken in East and Central Africa, and means “first fruits.” It is modeled on the various African first fruits or harvest festivals and, as such, is a time of thanksgiving. Karenga chose the Nguzo Saba, or seven principles, as a method for restoring a knowledge of African culture to Blacks around the world. " - Afu Cooper, Section 15
Past Press:
2011 - The Winnipeg Free Press:
www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/kwanzaa-holiday-celebrated-135425763.html