LifeWorks to Host Kwanzaa Celebration Dec. 30

LifeWorks NW’s REAL Program (Recovery, Empowerment, Achievement in Life), a culturally-responsive, community-based program for adolescents, has selected NIA, the fifth principle and day of Kwanzaa, to renew its purpose of service in its community. Kwanzaa’s seven principles, the “Nguzo Saba,” are an integral part of the REAL program’s curriculum and service delivery. Members of the general public are invited to celebrate from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.. Dec. 30, 4941 NE 17th St.

This will be a free event featuring speakers, music, soul food, and the opportunity to meet the REAL staff while celebrating the principles of Kwanzaa among a caring community of people. The event will feature a short program with presentations by:

• Joyce Harris, Mother Kwanzaa
• Michael Chappie Grice, spoken word historian and educator
• Jazz music by Yugen Rashad with Dialog & Friends
• Gumbo!

Adults and children are invited to attend this free community event, open to all. 

For more information visit their event page.

About Kwanzaa:

Kwanzaa, the seven day, African American holiday, begins on Monday, Dec. 26, 2016 and ends on Sunday, Jan. 1, 2017. Founded by Maulana Karenga, the week-long celebration embraces the Seven Principles of Kwanzaa, known as the “Nguzo Saba:”

Umoja – Unity
Kujichagulia – Self Determination
Ujima – Collective Work and Responsibility
Ujamaa – Cooperative Economics
Nia – Purpose
Kuumba – Creativity
Imani — Faith