December 31, 2013
Courtland Wilson Library in New Haven was a festive scene as Rep. Pat Dillon celebrated Kwanzaa with neighbors – many wearing traditional dress. The festivities included performances, songs, dances, raffles, and treats.
Kwanzaa celebrates family, community, and the culture of the African diaspora. As the joyful crowd joined in energetic dancing, a nearby poster by a New Haven artist reminded revelers to reach out to New Haven youth to prevent violence and build for the future.
The New Haven faith community, artists, performers and families contributed to the event.
The name Kwanzaa derives from the Swahili phrase matunda ya kwanza, meaning "first fruits of the harvest."
