AAHA announces 40th Anniversary of Kwanzaa Schedule

As the African Diaspora prepares for the 40th Anniversary of Kwanzaa, the African American Holiday Association (AAHA) continues its mission, since 1989, of educating and empowering communities through its events and media outreach campaign, about the healthy benefits of Kwanzaa for people of African descent. Kwanzaa, the 7 day celebration of family, community and culture, was created in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga, an African studies professor during the Black Consciousness Movement.

AAHA's founder/director, Ayo Handy Kendi has celebrated this holiday since 1970. AAHA will celebrate the 40th Anniversary of Kwanzaa through its traditional educational outreach campaign in the media, in schools, at public and private workshops, and through holiday health and stress management seminars. Mama Ayo, the Kwanzaa Griot, is available for scheduling at special rates, with the organization encouraging colleges and universities to consider such appearances. The planned, Fall/Winter activities include several public performances (Nov 4, 16, 17), Youth Entrepreneur training (Nov 18), a Harambee Peace Parade, Youth Peace Summit and Moratorium on Violence from Thanksgiving to New Years (Nov 25) ; the 23rd Annual MarketPlace Festival (Dec 16/17) and the Kwanzaa City Celebration on the 1st day of Kwanzaa (Dec 26).

Most events are free and open to the public with suggested donations. Partners and sponsors are still being sought to support AAHA/ YEP for youth crime and violence prevention, the focus for all of its community events.

For schedule details visit www.aaha-info.org or call Rashida Thomas, P.R. (AAHA) or Ayo Handy Kendi at 202-667-2577