Celebrating African American Heritage in Knoxville: The 10th Anniversary of the Knoxville Kwanzaa Collective

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — This week, the Knoxville Kwanzaa Collective is proudly marking its 10th anniversary by hosting a series of inclusive events that celebrate African American heritage through the lens of Kwanzaa. This annual, week-long cultural celebration takes place from December 26 to January 1, offering a unique opportunity for individuals and families to come together and honor African roots and shared values.

Understanding Kwanzaa

Kwanzaa, founded in 1966 by activists during the Black Power Movement, serves as a non-religious celebration that focuses on community, culture, and heritage. Each day of Kwanzaa is dedicated to one of the seven principles, known as the Nguzo Saba, which foster unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith.

Kwanzaa Events in Knoxville

A variety of events are planned throughout the week, ensuring that everyone in the Knoxville community has the opportunity to partake in the festivities. Here’s a closer look at what to expect:

Kugichaguia: Saturday, Dec. 27

• Kainga’s Kitchen Vegan Holiday Dinner: Enjoy a delightful meal from 5 to 8 p.m. with plates priced at $16 per person.

• Kwanzaa Expo with Sista Zock: From 2 to 7 p.m. at the Emporium, attendees can take part in an exciting afternoon featuring a candle-lighting ceremony, live band, deejay, drum and dance performances, community awards, and an Africa-inspired food experience. Guests are encouraged to wear African or cultural attire, embracing the evening’s theme, “Afro Fly Excellence.” Admission is $25, and RSVPs can be made here.

Ujamaa: Monday, Dec. 29

• LUV Collab Village Market: A poetry reading event is set to occur from 1 to 4 p.m. at Mis Amores Bookshop Cafe (with time and location updates forthcoming). For more information and updates, click here.

• Open Mic Event: Hosted by Sunny Almonte, this event will spotlight Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, as well as LGBTQ+ voices, from 6 to 8 p.m. at BirdHouse (location updates pending). Details can be found here.

Kuumba: Wednesday, Dec. 31

• Collaborating with Creative Community Cultural Arts, a Zwadi gift-making event will run from 1 to 4 p.m., available both live on Facebook and in-person (venue details pending).

Imani: Thursday, Jan. 1

• Cemetery Cleanup and Liberation Ceremony: This impactful event will take place from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Good Citizens Cemetery, serving to honor and restore this vital piece of history.

• Love in Unity Faith Walk: Organized by Indivisible Knoxville and Tennessee Finesse, this walk will traverse from the Boys and Girls Club at Walter Taylor Apartments to the Good Citizens Cemetery, running from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

• Imani Candle Lighting and Karamu Feast: Concluding the Kwanzaa celebrations, this community feast at Fourth United Presbyterian, located at 1323 N Broadway, invites guests to don African attire and bring dishes inspired by African cuisine.

Shared Experience and Cultural Significance

The events organized by the Knoxville Kwanzaa Collective are designed to be inclusive, drawing community members from all backgrounds to celebrate diversity, art, culture, and connection. As we look forward to these celebrations, it is vital to acknowledge the strength and creativity that Kwanzaa represents in building bridges within the community.

Through these engaging activities, participants will not only celebrate Kwanzaa but also foster a deeper appreciation for African American heritage in a welcoming and vibrant environment. As the collective gears up for its 10th anniversary, it stands as a testament to the power of community and the resilience of cultural traditions.