Kwanzaa celebrations will take place across Athens this year from December 26th to 31st. The annual holiday, founded in 1966, celebrates African American heritage and culture by highlighting seven community values: Umoja (unity), Kujichagulia (Self-Determination), Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility), Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), and Kuumba (Creativity).
The following Kwanzaa events are free and open to the public:
Umoja (unity): Cultural Competence Strategies for Community Advancement
Friday, December 26, 5:30 pm
First AME Church, 521 N. Hull St.
Kujichagulia (Self-Determination): Education as a Healing Practice
Saturday, December 27, 2:30 pm
Athens-Clarke County Library, 2025 Baxter St.
Ujima (Collective Work & Responsibility): Community Conversations with Athens’ Mayoral Candidates
Sunday, December 28, 2:30–4:30 p.m.
Athens-Clarke County Library, 2025 Baxter St.
Nia (Purpose): Children’s Reading and Craft Program
Tuesday, December 30, 2:30–4:30 p.m.
Athens-Clarke County Library, 2025 Baxter St.
Kuumba (Creativity): Fashion Show, Community Potluck, Live Performances
Wednesday, December 31, 3–6 p.m.
Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 780 Timothy Rd.
