Florida Communities Unite for Heartwarming Kwanzaa Celebration

When children lined up to light candles at Mt. Pleasant Missionary Baptist Church on December 28, they weren't just participating in a ceremony. They were connecting to values that could shape their entire year ahead.

The African American Heritage Preservation Society of East Pasco County organized the celebration, bringing together families from across two counties. This annual Kwanzaa gathering has become a bridge between generations, where college freshmen lead pledges alongside elementary students planting seeds.

Kwanzaa spans seven days, with each day honoring a different principle. Sunday's focus was Ujima, which means collective work and responsibility. Reverend Doctor Emery Ailes explained how this African concept connects to biblical teachings about bearing one another's burdens and lifting each other up.

Iyanna Perry, a fresh Florida State University graduate heading to intern with the Congressional Black Caucus this spring, welcomed guests on behalf of the church. Her presence showed the celebration's purpose in action: honoring tradition while launching young leaders into their futures.

The ceremony centered on lighting candles in the Kinara. Three red candles represent the struggles for freedom and equality. Three green ones symbolize harvest and growth. One black candle celebrates pride in Black identity and culture.

Children received meaningful gifts tied to the celebration's values. African beads represented creativity and artistic heritage. Seeds encouraged them to become gardeners and nurturers. Aloe vera plants taught resilience and the importance of bringing healing to the world.

Why This Inspires

Storyteller Wendell Campbell shared African tales that had children and adults equally captivated. Angela Theodore performed the libation ceremony, where attendees called out names of deceased loved ones, each followed by the community responding "Ashay," meaning "So be it."

The Electric Slide brought everyone to their feet, young and old dancing together. Nya Taylor, a Spelman College freshman, and other young people performed dramatic readings including Nikki Giovanni's powerful poem "Ego Tripping."

Eric Mukasa Theodore, the Society's president, watched children play traditional games and felt emotional. "Recovery and restoration are two practices that symbolize the spirit of Kwanzaa this year," he said. "Let children be children."

Jared K. Bennett reflected on growing up with Kwanzaa celebrations. "I'm thrilled to see children participate the way I did," he said. "The children had beautiful spirits that brought smiles to the people in the audience."

Facilitator Imani Asukile noted the Society continues refining ways to involve youth meaningfully. Based on Sunday's turnout and participation, they're clearly succeeding.

The celebration ended with full hearts and renewed commitments to the seven principles, ready to carry these values into the new year together.