VERO BEACH — A 2013 Kwanzaa celebration kindled joy and inspiration at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Vero Beach as its Social Justice Committee presented a second yearly celebration of the holiday, created nearly a half century ago by and for African American communities.
The after church, potluck luncheon enticed some 60 UUs to come together for good food, wonderful conversation, and great fun.
The Rev. Crystal Bujol and Susan Schmitke, event co-chairs, planned this as part of the committee’s 2011-2013 project, “An Honest Conversation about Race, Reconciliation and Responsibilities.”
Bujol stressed that, although Kwanzaa contains familiar traditions from other holidays, it is a cultural holiday, not a religious one.
Following the feast was a drumming circle with everyone participating, enthusiastically keeping time, and obeying instructions for rhythm changes.
Since this was a learning experience, the seven candles in the Kinara (candleholder) were lit one by one as seven speakers spoke of the seven Kwanzaa principles: unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith.
This year, each speaker related a Kwanzaa principle to one of the Unitarian seven principles, specifically suggesting how these two sets of principles can empower the African American community in Indian River County.
Then came dessert and audience participation in the discussion.
Dr. Maulana Karenga, professor and chairman of Black Studies at California State University, launched the 7-day observance of African culture and values in 1964, calling the post-Christmas holiday a celebration of “all that is good in life,” affirming the importance of what he calls the traditional “communitarian” values of Africa.
Today, it is celebrated by millions throughout the African community.
“People who fear that it’s doing something to Christmas; the reality of it is that the majority of African Americans who celebrate this are Christians,” Karenga said.
He said that black Christians, Jews, Muslims, and those of other religions can all find something to celebrate in the nonsectarian holiday.
The UU Fellowship offers a liberal religion on the Treasure Coast, has easy parking, and is handicap accessible.
It is located at 1590 27th Ave. on the southeast corner of 27th Ave. and 16th St.
For more information, please call (772) 778-5880 or visit the website at www.UUFVB.org.