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Lafayette’s annual celebration of Kwanzaa featured a banquet and performances Wednesday in the Bergethon Room of Marquis Hall.
Founded by Dr. Maulana Karenga in 1966, Kwanzaa is an African American holiday with a focus on traditional African values. The holiday’s name is derived from the Swahili word meaning “first fruits of the harvest,” and is rooted in the harvest celebrations practiced in various cultures throughout Africa. It is traditionally celebrated from Dec. 26-Jan. 1, with the Kwanzaa Feast occurring on Dec. 31. Each day is based on one of the Nguzo Saba (seven guiding principles), which are unity (umoja), self-determination (kujichagulia), collective work and responsibility (ujima), cooperative economics (ujamaa), purpose (nia), creativity (kuumba), and faith (imani).
Various campus organizations made presentations correlating to each of the seven principles, including Hillel Society, NIA, Association of Black Collegians, Brothers of Lafayette, Lafayette African and Caribbean Students Association, and International Students Association.
The main entrée of the sit-down meal was a choice of vegetarian lasagna, shrimp scampi, and grilled chicken in herb sauce. Salad, soup, and desserts also were served.
The free event was sponsored by the Office of Intercultural Development.