Kwanzaa committee
PebbleCreek resident artist Loretta Pruett presents the painting won by Kaye France
Cathi Hollis
What is it…? Kwanzaa is a cultural holiday observed by many African Americans and others from Dec. 26 to Jan. 1 as a celebration of their cultural heritage and traditional values. It was created in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga. He created it as a way to honor family, community, and culture. There are seven principles of Kwanzaa that are celebrated during the week of observance. They are: Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self-Determination), Ujima (Work and Responsibility), Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), Kuumba (Creativity), and Imani (Faith). Similar to the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah, a candle is lit every day during Kwanzaa and families take time to discuss the corresponding principle of the day.
This year the Sisters of the Valley Club (SOV), a social club with approximately 270 members from throughout the valley and Tucson, celebrated the Principle Kuumba (Creativity) on Dec. 17, at the Hampton Inn & Suites in Goodyear with 143 members attending. Several PebbleCreek residents are members including co-founder Muriel Hiller. The 2022 Program included the National Negro Anthem: “Lift Every Voice and Sing…”, a brunch buffet, traditions such as candle lighting, cultural and artistic expressions including music, gifts, African dancing, storytelling (skits), and art. Artists—including Robert Jackson from Tucson, Jenita Landrum from Phoenix, and PebbleCreek resident artist and SOV member Loretta Pruett—decorated the room with their art and donated a piece of art to be given away as a gift to a lucky SOV Member.
The SOV Club has been celebrating Kwanzaa since Dec. 16, 2000. The Club also celebrated its 30th Anniversary in 2022.