Kwanzaa Kicks Off at Plaza Mariachi

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Kwanzaa Nashville is hosting a large Umoja Night event at the Plaza Mariachi to kick off the holiday, beginning at 6 p.m. Kwanzaa Nashville Founder and Chair, Maria “Djemebe Queen” Hall, said she feels energized by the holiday. She said it is a time where the cultural community in Nashville, particularly the African-American community, comes together to celebrate their heritage, culture, and the good in the world. “It’s definitely an experience for the community, not just for African Americans,” Hall said. “This holiday is a celebration of African culture, but it’s also a very inclusive holiday because the principles of Kwanzaa are universal.” Hall said she loves this time of year as it allows the African American community to take time away from the hustle and bustle to reflect on what is happening within their community and celebrate who they are. She said Kwanzaa Nashville does this by celebrating the seven principles of Kwanzaa, which are grounded in unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith. Hall said that guests of Umoja Night will likely be greeted by excited participants before happening upon the large marketplace that will be hosted throughout the evening....