Happy Kwanzaa, y’all!
It’s time to celebrate the beautiful and rich culture of Black Americans and African family and social values! This year, the Auburn Avenue Research Library is presenting a free Kwanzaa celebration, hosted by Giwayen Mata.
What is Giwayen Mata?
Giwayen Mata explains their organization beautifully on their website:
“WE are Giwayen Mata, the dynamic, soul stirring, all sistah, dance, percussion, and vocal ensemble. In the Hausa language from Nigeria, our name means “elephant women” and is a term given to the leaders of women’s organizations there. Just like elephants we are a multi-generational herd. We nurture one another, lead one another, and maintain our culture with dignity and grace.
Grounded by movements, rhythms, and songs of the African Diaspora, we present to you performance works that reflect, celebrate, and unlock the hidden treasures of Black womanhood.
With our feet touching the sacred grounds of our Indigenous American ancestors and the birth lands of our foremothers and forefathers of African descent, we stand tall showing honor and respect for the beautiful tapestry of life that adorns who we are as powerful daughters of the world.”
What are the details for Kwanzaa Freshii?
When: Dec 30, 2023, at 3:00 PM
Where: Drew Charter School (Yates Campus), 300 Eva Davis Way SE, Atlanta, GA 30317, USA
Giwayen Mata is hosting the celebration in a brand new fresh way this year. They write on their website:
“Kwanzaa Freshii is a fresh new way to celebrate a rich and powerful culture. The vendor marketplace will open at 2pm and the concert will begin at 3pm. This is a free event with optional reserved seating available starting at $10. Free seats are first come, first served.” Reserved accessible seating is free.
The celebration will feature performances by Giwayen Mata, Bro. Chike Akua, Kilombo Academic & Cultural Institute, and Egun Omode!
Learn more about the celebration on their website!
If you need a refresher…
Kwanzaa is a non-religious holiday celebrated by many Black Americans. The holiday begins on December 26th, and continues until January 1st. Kwanzaa celebrates Black cultural heritage and values. The first Kwanzaa celebration was officially began in 1966, and it has been an American holiday ever since.
Happy Kwanzaa, Atlanta!