The California African American Museum (CAAM) hosted its Kwanzaa Kuumba Celebration on Dec. 14, a lively and family-friendly event that offered a robust program of activities highlighting Kuumba, the “creativity” principle of Kwanzaa.
The celebration provided an engaging and immersive experience for attendees of all ages, blending cultural education, artistic expression, and opportunities for reflection.
The day began with a yoga session led by Yogi and meditation teacher Constance Hartwell. Participants moved through a thoughtfully designed flow suitable for all skill levels, ensuring that beginners could feel comfortable and included.
The session created a serene and reflective atmosphere, setting a mindful tone for the day’s festivities while emphasizing the importance of self-care and balance within the framework of cultural celebration.
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Next, Jayon and Jon Kev captivated families and children with an interactive storytelling performance. Both professional musicians, Jayon — a classically trained vocalist — and Jon Kevin — an accomplished guitarist and bass player known for his humor — infused their session with energy, creativity, and connection.
“Jambo, Watoto,” Jayon greeted the children and invited them to sit on yoga mats on the floor. Tactile experiences were provided, including African musical instruments such as the axatse and various drums.
Through song and activity, they introduced the seven principles of Kwanzaa, Nguzo Saba, with a special emphasis on Kuumba. Their stories wove together themes of resilience, imagination, and collaboration, demonstrating how creativity can transcend generations and cultures.
Jayon also provided a brief but enriching history of Kwanzaa, sharing insights about its founder, Dr. Maulana Karenga, who established the holiday in 1966 to reconnect African Americans to their roots, promote self-determination, and promote unity and community building.
The celebration concluded with a hands-on zine-making workshop led by a teaching artist from Able ARTS Work, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering individuals of all abilities through the creative arts. Participants of all ages unleashed their imaginations, using materials provided—such as collage images, drawing instruments, and colorful paper—to craft unique zines inspired by the values and traditions of Kwanzaa.
Attendees were also encouraged to bring personal items to incorporate into their designs, adding a deeply personal touch to their creations. The workshop not only celebrated artistic expression but also emphasized the inclusivity and communal spirit of Kwanzaa. This portion of the event was made possible by a generous grant from the City of Los Angeles’ Department of Cultural Affairs.
The Kwanzaa Kuumba Celebration at CAAM was a lively reminder of the power of creativity to connect people, honor cultural heritage, and inspire future generations. From reflective yoga to interactive storytelling and artistic creation, the event embodied the essence of Kuumba, leaving attendees with a renewed sense of community, culture, and creativity.
