Title
Congratulating the
Kwanzaa Cooperative for inaugurating the first City Kinara in Philadelphia history and for organizing
Kwanzaa programming at the Free Library to uphold the traditions of
Kwanzaa in Philadelphia for years to come.
Body
WHEREAS,
Kwanzaa is an African-American and Pan-African celebration that honors history, values, family, community, and culture. Observed from December 26th through January 1st, its origins are in the first harvest celebrations of Africa from which it takes its name; and
WHEREAS,
Kwanzaa was established in America in 1966 during the Black Freedom Movement by Dr. Maulana Karenga.
Kwanzaa reflects the Movement's concern for cultural grounding in thought and practice, as well as its associated calls for unity and self determination; and
WHEREAS, The
Kwanzaa Cooperative is a Philadelphia based cultural and social change organization formed in 1980 under the guidance of Dr. Maulana Karenga. The mission of the
Kwanzaa Cooperative is to provide a local authority on the true meaning and mission of
Kwanzaa for the tri-state area; and
WHEREAS, The membership of the
Kwanzaa Cooperative consists of some of the first celebrants of
Kwanzaa in Philadelphia, dating back to 1968. The membership has been deeply committed to the celebration and has achieved an expertise on both
Kwanzaa and African history and culture generally; and
WHEREAS, Maisha Sullivan-Ongoza, known to many as Mama Maisha, is the Chairwoman of the
Kwanzaa Cooperative in Philadelphia. Mama Maisha is a longstanding teacher, community leader, and dedicated builder of transformative justice movements in Philadelphia; and
WHEREAS, Since its founding, the
Kwanzaa Cooperative has provided its local expertise to media, schools and universities, faith based organizations, and local government. This shared expertise has included local news interviews, the development of educational materials and presentations, annual community education workshops, annual
Kwanzaa celebration...
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