The city of Rancho Cordova, California, welcomed community members to celebrate the first day of Kwanzaa, marking the start of the 27th Annual California State Capitol Kwanzaa celebration. Originally scheduled to take place at the California State Capitol in Sacramento on December 26, 2023, the event was moved indoors due to rain, providing a festive atmosphere where unity and culture thrived.
Celebrating Unity and Culture
The festivities were led by Michael Harris, president and CEO of the California Black Agriculture Working Group and a student of Kwanzaa’s founder, Dr. Maulana Karenga. Harris emphasized the importance of the celebration, stating that the event carries “the oldest, largest, most accurate notion of authentic California Pan African Ancestry.”
The day featured a variety of activities designed to honor African culture and the core principles of Kwanzaa. Among these were cultural performances, children’s arts and crafts, and a tasting event called “Farm to Fork Friday,” showcasing Pan African cuisine, as reported by KCRA.
Over the course of the week, Sacramento’s Kwanzaa festivities will highlight the Nguzo Saba, or seven principles, while paying homage to ancestors. Each day of Kwanzaa is symbolized by the lighting of a candle, focusing on virtues such as purpose, creativity, and cooperation. Local dignitaries, including Pastor Carl Dee Amattoe and Rancho Cordova Mayor Garrett Gatewood, participated in the celebrations, offering insights and speeches that contributed to the community spirit.
A Legacy of Education and Reflection
The week-long activities offer not just entertainment but also educational opportunities. Mary Wood, a participant in the celebration, shared her perspective with CBS News Sacramento, stating, “As parents, grandparents, great-grandparents, we have a responsibility to share what we’ve been through so that history doesn’t repeat itself.”
Personal stories and anecdotes shared during these gatherings enable participants to educate younger generations about the challenges and triumphs of the Pan African community. Kwanzaa, now in its 59th year, continues to serve as a vital platform for fostering a sense of identity and collective responsibility.
The rescheduled Capitol Kwanzaa celebration is set to occur on January 1, 2024, at 11:30 a.m. on the west steps of the Capitol, ensuring that the tradition persists regardless of weather challenges.
