Dec. 21, 2007 – The following is a schedule of events for the celebration of Kwanzaa on all three islands.
On St. Thomas
Wednesday, Dec. 26
The African Diaspora Youth Development Foundation Inc. will hold its 34th annual Kwanzaa Festival from 7-10 p.m., at Wesley Methodist Church educational complex in Tutu, next to Four Winds Plaza. The evening includes a farmer's report by Elridge Thomas; a youth presentation by Nanyamka Farrelly; and a special tribute to Baba Juba, the late poet and drummer for the Echo People. There will be poetry, drumming by Afreekan Southwell and Company, and violin renditions by Isis Collier. A vendors' market will be set up, and vegetarian food will be served. Admission is free.
For more information, call 777-3432.
Thursday, Dec. 27
The Pan-African Support Group and Environmental Rangers present "Kwanzaa 2007: The Road to Self-Determination," at 6:30 p.m., at Charlotte Amalie High School cafeteria. The event will feature music, drumming, song, poetry, dance, a feast, and African cultural items and gifts. Admission is free.
For more information, call 774-1318.
Friday, Dec. 28
Enid Baa Public Library will hold a Kwanzaa celebration from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in celebration of Ujima, the principle of collective work and responsibility.
For more information, call 774-0630.
Sunday, Dec. 30
Seven Seals Promotion and Treasures of Zion will present a "Liberation Affair During Kwanzaa," on "Nia," the day of purpose, from 3-11 p.m., at Tillett Gardens. Virgin Islands reggae artists Batch, Junior P, and From Scratch will perform. After Dark will spin conscious and reggae classics from past to present. Speeches will be given by constitutional convention delegates Larry Sewer, CEO of Jewel of the Isles, and Stedman Hodge. Afreekan Southwell will serve as master of ceremonies. Drumming by the Echo People and St. Thomas chapter of the Ethiopian African Black International Congress, poetry, cultural activities, vegan food and drinks, and arts and crafts will be offered up. Admission is $5 before 8 p.m., and $15 after. The event is free for children under 10.
For information on participating as a volunteer, vendor or sponsor, call 344-0727.
Sunday, Dec. 30
We Grow Food will hold a farmer's market and annual "Kwanzaa Ilah-bration" from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Bordeaux tennis court. Participants can enjoy fresh locally grown produce, tea bush, vegan cuisine, drinks, and discussions on the celebration and music. The Environmental Rangers will make presentations. There will be children's Kwanzaa card making and other activities. Jahstarr Ko-Nya will speak and K. Leba Ola-Niyi will give a Power Point presentation. Admission is free.
For more information, call 774-4204 or 344-9118.
Tuesday, Jan. 1
Kwanzaa organizers invite the public to a Community Kwanzaa and informal potluck at Brewers Bay to celebrate the last day of the festival at noon, New Year's Day. Admission is free.
For more information, call 774-1318, 473-7274, or 344-9118.
On St. John
Wednesday, Jan. 2
The 12th annual Kwanzaa Celebration, sponsored by the Sigma Theta Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., will be held at 6 p.m., at the Franklin A. Powell Sr. Park in Cruz Bay. There will be guest speakers, vendors and musical performances. This year's honoree is Rodney Varlack. Admission is free.
For more information, call 693-8931.
On St. Croix
Saturday, Dec. 29
The United Caribbean Association will host a Kwanzaa Potluck, Music and Dance Celebration from 6-10 p.m., at the store on King Street, in Frederiksted, near the Frederiksted Fort, Bandstand, and Customs House.
For more information, call 772-2079 or 772-5063.
