Kwanzaa 229 lights first candle, kicks off celebration events at Charles Sherrod Park
ALBANY, Ga. – South Albany is buzzing with the holiday season continuing as many in the community came together at Charles M. Sherrod Park to kick off Kwanzaa.
Music filled the air in South Albany as a large crows turned out to light the first candle for Kwanzaa.
And, for Albany’s Ward 1 Commissioner, Jon Howard, it’s exciting to have such a turnout the day after Christmas.
“I was elated. I was fascinated. And, it really brought joy because I was able to participate in this one in the past. Plus, this is citywide and countywide,” said Commissioner Jon Howard, Ward 1, City of Albany.
Organizers are also enjoying bringing the community out to celebrate as they kick off a week of Kwanzaa events.
Like Adam Inyang, who spoke with us about the hard work they put in to bring people together in South Albany at a park named in honor of a Civil Rights leader.
“When we were organizing the event, we wanted to make sure people knew that this is your community and we want to have fun in our community is not just a park to come in and sit in. We can actually play and have a good time. So, we decided to bring games out, have a small mini carnival,” said Adam Inyang, co-organizer.
We also met Cassinda Nelson, who made the trip up from Camilla to Albany to take part in the Kwanzaa festivities with others, and be a part of the drum circle.
“I wanted to honor our ancestors. I wanted to be here and uplift and honor our land. It is so important to step up and tap into our culture. So, for me, this was a personal experience,” said Cassinda Nelson, Camilla.
As the festivities roll on, Commissioner Howard wants to make sure Kwanzaa serves it’s purpose: educating the next generation.
“We’re gonna do it for six days more; it’s to educate the young folks and to pass the torch to them,” said Commissioner Howard.
And, organizers across the city are encouraging anyone interested as they continue to celebrate through January 1st.
And, if you’re interested in attending any of the events, you can find the flyer here.
Brian Roche reporting.
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