Collections by Michelle Brown WSG Dr. Kofi Adoma/Kwanzaa in the Community

What is Kwanzaa, how is it celebrated in the community at large and especially in the African American LGBTQ community?

Joining Collections by Michelle Brown is Dr. Kofi Adoma who for many years has organized and led Kwanzaa celebrations in Detroit’s African American LGBTQ community to give us a “Kwanzaa 101” introduction and talk about this year’s celebration.
An African American cultural holiday initiated by Dr. Maulana Karenga Kwanzaa celebrates the work and dedication African Americans put forth throughout the year. 
It is patterned on the African celebration of harvest during which tribute is paid to the ancestors and to God, while at the same time praying for another benevolent year. The word “Kwanzaa” refers to the first fruits of the harvest. It indicates the firm determination of a community to begin a new year of commitment, hard work, and fulfillment that requires collective effort. 
It centers around the Nguzo Saba (Seven Principles) Umoja (Unity); Kujichagulia (Self-Determination); Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility); Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics); Nia (Purpose); Kuumba (Creativity); and Imani (Faith).

"Dr. Kofi", as she is affectionately called, has been a community activist/organizer since high school when she was a member of the Highland Park High School Black Awareness Club. She is a founding member of numerous grassroots organizations including Unity Fellowship Church Detroit, The A.L.O.R.D.E. Collective, Karibu House Community Center, Race Matters, and The Ruth Ellis Center.