The African Burial Ground National Monument (ABGNM) in Manhattan hosted a Kwanzaa celebration this past Friday, marking the start of the seven-day holiday focused on unity and self-determination. Organized by the National Park Service (NPS), the event featured performances by the Fusha Dance Company, remarks by NPS Supervisory Park Manager Ramon Mangual, an African libation ceremony, and a lecture by Minister Monique J. Fortune.
A Year of Challenges for the Monument
The Kwanzaa celebration was particularly significant this year, as it followed a period of restricted access to the ABGNM. Despite a successful Black History Month event, the monument faced closures throughout the year due to ongoing anti-Trump and anti-ICE protests outside 26 Federal Plaza, across from the Ted Weiss Federal Building where the ABGNM is located. These protests led to the closure of Elk Street and Reade Street, limiting public access to the outdoor sculptural space.
Further disruptions came in October with the federal government shutdown and in November with sidewalk repairs on Broadway. The ABGNM announced its reopening on Facebook in mid-November, and by December, access via Elk Street and Reade Street had been restored. Notably, officials associated with the ABGNM declined to comment on the reasons for the closures, or acknowledge their connection to the protests.
The Origins of Kwanzaa
Kwanzaa was created in 1966 by Maulanga Karenga, also known as Ron Karenga, in response to the 1965 Watts Riots in Los Angeles and broader themes of Black self-determination. The holiday’s principles, beginning with “Umoja” – meaning unity – are rooted in Pan-African thought. While not intended as an alternative to Christmas, Kwanzaa was conceived as a distinctly non-Christian celebration.
Karenga’s personal history includes a 1971 trial for false imprisonment and assault, though he maintains his prosecution was politically motivated. He later earned a PhD and currently chairs the Africana Studies department at California State University at Long Beach.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Seven Principles of Kwanzaa?
According to a flyer distributed by the NPS, the Seven Principles are Umoja (unity), Kujichagulia (self-determination), Ujima (collective work and responsibility), Ujamaa (cooperative economics), Nia (purpose), Kuumba (creativity), and Imani (faith).
What security measures are in place at the ABGNM?
Admission to the ABGNM is free, but visitors are required to pass through an airport-style security screening, similar to that observed at City Hall and the Hall of Records.
When was Maulanga Karenga’s trial?
Maulanga Karenga went on trial in Los Angeles in 1971 for the false imprisonment and assault of two women.
As Kwanzaa continues to evolve, its place within the broader cultural landscape—sandwiched between Christmas and Black History Month—remains a subject of negotiation and self-definition.
