Effingham County, Ga Celebrates Kwanzaa with the Nia Principle

Kwanzaa, a celebration of African American culture and heritage, holds a special place in the hearts of communities across the United States. Effingham County, Georgia, joined in the festivities with a vibrant Principle Nia gathering on Day 5, hosted by the local NAACP chapter's dynamic duo, Gladys Smalls and Lucille Clark. The event, held with warmth and unity, featured the insightful moderation of Servant Emmanuel Branch. This celebration showcased the richness of African American culture and emphasized the importance of
unity, purpose, and collective responsibility.

​The Meaning of Nia and Candle Lighting:
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Nia, the Swahili word for "purpose," took center stage on this festive day. As Gladys Smalls eloquently explained the purpose of the gathering, attendees were reminded of the collective responsibility to build and develop their community. The ceremony further emphasized the essence of Nia through the symbolic lighting of candles, a ritual that underscores the importance of unity, self-determination, and working together for a common purpose. Jaiden
Steven, with grace and precision, assisted in the candle lighting ceremony, creating a symbolic visual representation of the shared goals and aspirations of the community.

​The event featured a lineup of distinguished presenters who added depth and insight to the celebration. Jennifer Golden opened the gathering with a heartfelt prayer, setting the tone for a spiritually enriching experience. Gladys Smalls, as the host, provided a compelling overview of the purpose of the gathering, emphasizing the importance of Nia in fostering unity and purpose within the community.

​​Lucille Clark, with her extensive knowledge, delved into the symbolism and terminology associated with Kwanzaa, enriching the audience's understanding of the cultural nuances embedded in the celebration.

​Leroy Lloyd took the stage to enlighten the community on the principles of Kwanzaa, offering profound insights into the values that bind communities together. The principles of unity (Umoja), self-determination (Kujichagulia), collective work and responsibility (Ujima), cooperative economics (Ujamaa), and purpose (Nia) were eloquently presented, reinforcing the signi9cance of these principles in every day life.

​No celebration is complete without music, and the event was no exception. The classic anthem, "Lift Every Voice and Sing," resounded through the gathering, evoking a powerful sense of pride
and unity. The lyrics, written by James Weldon Johnson and set to music by his brother John Rosamond Johnson, serve as a poignant reminder of the struggles and triumphs of the African American community.

​Effingham County, Georgia, came together in a spirit of unity, purpose, and shared responsibility during the Kwanzaa celebration centered around Principle Nia. The event, hosted by the local NAACP chapter and moderated by Servant Emmanuel Branch, showcased the richness of African American culture through prayer, libation, symbolism, and insightful presentations.

As the candles were lit, and the echoes of "Lift Every Voice and Sing" 9lled the air, the
community embraced the principles of Kwanzaa, reinforcing the importance of purpose and collective responsibility in building a strong and vibrant future together.

Sister Zenji (affectionately known as Sister Z) spearheads the Yahshua University Sisterhood and Sisterhood Blog where she works with other committed Sisters in Yah to create a Safe Haven for new sisters coming into the truth. ​