Kwanzaa is a week-long African American and Pan-African holiday that honors family, community, culture, and the shared values that connect people of African descent. As the fall semester comes to a close, the African American Cultural Center hosts its annual Kwanzaa Celebration—an evening rooted in tradition, reflection, and unity. This cherished event is open to the entire UConn community and serves as a meaningful way to end the semester in celebration and togetherness.

The celebration features a traditional communal feast, the lighting of the kinara, and engaging cultural performances that highlight the richness and resilience of the African diaspora. Each part of the evening reflects one or more of the seven guiding principles of Kwanzaa—unity (umoja), self-determination (kujichagulia), collective work and responsibility (ujima), cooperative economics (ujamaa), purpose (nia), creativity (kuumba), and faith (imani).

Join us for a night of culture, community, and connection as we honor the legacy and values that continue to shape and strengthen us.