Just Do It

Pre-Kwanzaa Celebration: Sat., Dec. 22, 1-5 p.m., $1-$5, New Media Technology Charter School, 340 E. Haines St., 267-286-6900

by Dana Henry

Sat., Dec. 22, 1-5 p.m., $1-$5, New Media Technology Charter School, 340 E. Haines St., 267-286-6900

It's no mistake that Kwanzaa begins the day after Christmas. The weeklong celebration of African-American culture purposely honors heritage and family during an increasingly commercialized time of the year. Of its seven core principals, Umoja (a Swahili term for unity) guides the New Media Technology Charter School, along with sister school Lotus Academy, in welcoming the public to their annual Pre-Kwanzaa Celebration. "This serves to educate about Kwanzaa, about its principles, its traditions and family," explains Shannon Moore, special projects coordinator at New Media. "These principles can be embraced by everyone — it's not just a black thing."

Learning about culture, however, doesn't make for a stuffy affair. Attendees are encouraged to participate when they feel moved by the diverse lineup of performances. Livening up the traditional Kwanzaa story and candle-lighting will be entertainment by Universal Drum and Dance Ensemble and hip-hop youth group G.O.D. Power Productions. In "Dance Through the Ages," a student ensemble will showcase everything from African dances to breakdancing. A demonstration of Capoeira Angola (an African-originated brand of martial arts), vendors and a children's craft table will give the festival even more layers.

In addition to cultural awareness, one of the day's goals is to engage the community in the affairs of Philly youth. According to Moore, an African proverb provides the best guidance: "It takes a village to raise our children."