Imagine living in a community that showed unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, group economics, purpose, creativity, and above all else faith. Imagine a world like that! All of this was presented Sunday evening December 8, to a standing-room only audience.
Through the direction, vision, and love of Bernadette BJ Lark, the Harrison Museum of African American culture and Community ARTSreach presented a Kwanzaa production with the theme “Bringing Forth Good Fruit.” The production featured a very diverse cast and crew with music under the direction of DeRon Lark. The cast included many partnerships throughout the city all under the guidance of Bernadette Lark.
Amazetta Anderson led the candle lighting as seven youth explained what each Kwanzaa principal means to them. The seven principals are Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self Determination), Ujima (Collective work and responsibility), Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), Kuumba (Creativity), and Imani (Faith).
Many youth participated in the production with confidence and pride. Also performing were young dancers through Positive Impact Dance ministry under the leadership of Khyree English displaying gracefulness of dance mixed with the drum.
Sunday evening was a perfect example of the talent, intellect and beauty Roanoke has to offer. An African tradition through drumming was also displayed throughout the show as Negro spirituals were sung. The same songs that helped our ancestors get through the worse and best times. Throughout the show on display was the connection that all people have to the African culture through dance, song, and speech
Why should we celebrate Kwanzaa? Kwanzaa teaches self-esteem, faith, love, and working as a community, all qualities stressed on Sunday evening as still very much needed in our world today!
