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Heritage echoes in Kwanzaa
By JOSH ZIMMER, Times Staff Writer CARROLLWOOD -- To the deep sound of an ever faster drumbeat, the young women dressed in bright, colorful robes cupped small baskets bearing incense, leaving behind the scent of purification as they walked around the seated guests. It was a solemn start to this year's Kwanzaa celebration at St. Paul Catholic Church off N Dale Mabry Highway. Attendance was well below last year's, but the 50 or so who came responded enthusiastically to the annual ceremony, which involves dance and storytelling and emphasizes unity and tradition among African-Americans. "It's very beautiful," said James Coleman Sr., holding his 11-month-old grandson, Temperance Paris, and celebrating Kwanzaa for the first time. The church's family center was brightened by the intricately woven African-style dresses, and by the large, elaborately wrapped headdresses that at times seemed to balance precariously on the wearers' heads. But the clothing was just one example of cultural pride embedded in Kwanzaa. The holiday was formulated 35 years ago by Dr. Maulana Karenga to foster unity and identity among blacks during the civil rights era. People who came to St. Paul talked repeatedly about the creating a positive tradition that seeks a deep connection with Africa. Kwanzaa "gives us a time to reflect on African heritage and the standards we should use in everyday life," said Rudean Crawley of the North Tampa African Alliance. The alliance, which she heads, is a year-old organization that put together both this year's and last year's celebrations. Kwanzaa, which followers say does not discourage people from celebrating Christmas and other religious holidays, lasts seven days. Each day focuses on a different value, such as unity, self-determination and faith. On a table at the end of the hall children laid out the holiday's various symbols, among them a woven mat representing foundation; a Kinara holding seven black, green and red candles; a basket with corn ears symbolizing the children and the future; and a libation cup. Friday marked the third day of Kwanzaa, with its emphasis on collective work and responsibility. A free ceremony next week at the Enoch Davis Center at 1111 18th Ave. S in St. Petersburg will mark the last day of Kwanzaa, which focuses on imani, or faith. The event lasts from 6 to 8 p.m. and is open to the public. Friday night, two young Nigerian women also performed, after graduating from the Alliance's etiquette and self-esteem program. Both honor students at Lincoln University in Pennsylvania, they performed a rhythmic thanksgiving dance before leading a storytelling session with the youngest children. Crawley, looking out on a room of empty tables, said she expected 200 people. The small showing means the alliance will have to work much harder next year drumming up support, she said. "From the people that called we expected a full house," she said. "That said, we'll take a half-house."
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From the Times Sandra Thompson |
