The Black Students' Union (BSU) at the University of Rochester has scheduled a variety of events next week on the University's River Campus to mark Kwanzaa, an African-American and Pan-African holiday celebrating family, community, and culture through seven principles.
The celebration starts at 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 28, by spotlighting the value of Umoja (unity) with a volleyball tournament in the Goergen Athletic Center. On Tuesday, Nov. 29, students will lead a panel focusing on Kujichagulia (self-determination) and Ujima (collective work). The discussion, titled "Does Success Separate Us?" will be held at 8 p.m. in Havens Lounge of Wilson Commons.
On Wednesday, Nov. 30, BSU will celebrate the value of Ujamaa (cooperative economics) and Nia (purpose) by playing games with young children and screening a Disney film at 6 p.m. in the Ronald McDonald House, 333 Westmoreland Drive. An "Amateur Night" will be held at 9 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 1, in the Common Ground Café of Wilson Commons to highlight Kuumba (creativity) and Imani (faith). University students are invited to demonstrate their talents in any form such as singing, reciting poetry, or performing comedy skits.
Kwanzaa Celebration Week will come to a finale with a "Kwanzaa Extravaganza" at 7 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 2, in the May Room of Wilson Commons. A buffet-style dinner will be served, and the student groups Indulgence, Afro-Expressions, and Uplifted Voices will perform dance and musical numbers. The event's keynote speaker, family and community programmer Delores Radney, will talk about Kwanzaa's seven principles. Tickets for Friday's event are $14 and are available in advance at the Common Market in Wilson Commons.
For more information, contact Marquis Harrison at (585) 274-0354.