Boathouse Row was lit up for Kwanzaa on Thursday evening.
The City of Philadelphia partnered with the Kwanzaa Cooperative for the holiday celebration at the Eagle Pavilion at the Fairmount Water Works.
“It brought tears to my eyes thinking about so many of our members who have struggled to get this level of recognition over the years,” said Maisha Sullivan-Ongoza of the Kwanzaa Cooperative.
This was the first day of Kwanzaa and it was filled with various speakers, performances and other entertainment.
“If you come to Philadelphia from December 26 through January 1, you will see the largest exhibition in the country right here along Boathouse Row,” said Vincent Thompson, communications director for the Philadelphia City Council.
People who spoke with CBS News Philadelphia said they enjoy seeing the community come together.
“We are reminded of the importance of community and the strength we gain when we unite against our differences,” said Parks and Recreation Commissioner Susan Slawson.
Meanwhile, the African American Museum in Philadelphia hosted their Kwanzaa celebration. They too celebrated a celebration rooted in cultural traditions, family and culture.
While the celebration continues in the city, Slawson said this goes beyond a celebration of culture.
“It is a celebration of the principles that bind us together: unity, self-determination, purpose and faith. They are not just a part of Kwanzaa, they are a part of who we are,” Slawson said.
Kerri Corrado
