Kwanzaa, an annual week-long holiday honoring African-American and Pan African culture, is nearing again. Mark your calendars for December 21st and turn up the excitement with A Red Circle as we celebrate community, joy, and unity. 

Rooted in Black History and Identity 

Founded in 1966 by activist Maulana Karenga (formerly Ron Karenga), Kwanzaa was initially inspired by the Watts riots and signified a sacred time for Black people to learn and celebrate their distinct identities, culture and history. Today, the holiday that spans from December 26th to January 1st every year, is observed by millions across the globe.

Seven Principles, Seven Candles 

The word Kwanzaa is Swahili for “first fruits” and is symbolic of African pride during the harvest season. Being in alignment with African social values and practices, the holiday encourages seven principles on each day of the celebration: “Umoja” (Unity) on day 1, “Kujichagulia” (Self-Determination) on day 2, “Ujima” (Collective Work and Responsibility) on day 3, “Ujamaa” (Cooperative Economics) on day 4, “Nia” (Purpose) on day 5, “Kuumba” (Creativity) on day 6, and “Imani” (Faith) on day 7. 

A significant part of the Kwanzaa tradition involves the lighting of a candle on each night. The kinara holds one black candle in the middle which stands for unity, three red candles on the left which symbolizes Blacks’  turbulent history of struggle and bloodshed, and three green candles on the right which represent earth in connection to a fertile future. 

Where the Personal Meets the Community 

Jessica Johnson, Director of Community Arts, cherishes her special relationship to Kwanzaa. She leans on her personal experiences celebrating the holiday to lead A Red Circle’s festive initiative this year and hold space for those who are new to the practice or want to deepen their understanding through the performing arts. 

“Kwanzaa started in my family when I was little,” said Johnson. “We’d gather and light candles at the home of my great-aunt, Sylnice Williams, on my mother’s side. My late uncle Damu Smith always played this song for me called “Afro Blue” which held an emotional connection for me because it showed me how to love who I am despite colorism that’s often evident in our community. When he passed from colon cancer in 2005, the tradition kind of dissolved for us. So, when A Red Circle started with its focus on racial equity in North County, we thought we should bring Kwanzaa back and turn it from a family tradition into a community tradition.” 

On Saturday, December 21st, A Red Circle will bring together family, community and the spirit of unity to North St. Louis County, with a day of “Kwanzaa: The Village It Takes” festivities, starting with a vendor fair at 3pm CT at St. Stephen’s and The Vine Episcopal Church (33 North Clay, Ferguson MO, 63135). The trade show will feature local artisans and small businesses highlighting their unique talents. 

A savory vegan soul food dinner prepared by Jessica Moore, Nutrition Culinarian at A Red Circle, will take place following the fair, along with a stage show that highlights the extraordinary gifts of local performers. Reserve your meal and stage show for only $15 online by December 14 to secure your spot. 

“For the stage show, we’re prioritizing performers who are based in North St. Louis County, and we’re still looking for dancers and poets or spoken word artists who want to join, said Johnson. “Those interested should apply by November 12. Each person will get time for a 6-minute act, $100 stipend, and A Red Circle will post and share their info on our social media networks to help boost their exposure. Right now, we’re excited to have a number of singers, rappers and instrumentalists onboard.” 

Among those performers is A Red Circle’s very own Executive Assistant, Erisha Tyus, who’ll be singing “Keep the Faith” by Michael Jackson. 

“I grew up in the church and was a voice major in college and also studied piano,” said Tyus. “I’ve always loved music since it’s been a huge part of my life, growing up. A few years back, my family decided to incorporate Kwanzaa. The gift-giving is what drew me to it even more. It’s my favorite. I always wanted to learn more and now I can with this event.” 

Raymond Douglas (stage name “Rayele”) is also gracing the stage with his electric guitar.

“My dear friend, Lady J (Joyce Huston, Community Arts Coordinator at A Red Circle) connected me to this event,” said Douglas. “I’m a blues player who’s been performing  since I was 16 when I started out on the bass guitar. As a buster, I’ve played for over 13 years all over the St Louis area at restaurant openings, fundraisers, special events and more. I like that this is a community event, and I want to enhance my network as a musician.” 

Join A Red Circle in ending the year with a bang by helping us connect artisans, small businesses, and youth who are interested in using the arts to navigate a troubled past. 

“We appreciate the fun and entertainment aspect,” said Johnson, “but we also deeply value and understand the role that this time of year plays in our emotional development and mental health. Kwanzaa increases our ability to make connections and friends, especially when we do things in unity.”