A vibrant Kwanzaa celebration unfolded in Flossmoor Park as community members lit the Kinara each night of the holiday, honoring African American culture and values.
From December 26 to January 1, Flossmoor witnessed a beautiful display of community spirit as local residents, alongside village and school district officials, gathered nightly to light the Kinara. Kwanzaa, a week-long celebration dedicated to African American and Pan-African heritage, encourages reflection on culture, history, and community values.
On the second night of Kwanzaa, village administrative assistant Torria Sparkmon took the honor of lighting the Kinara, representing the principle of self-determination. In attendance were Flossmoor police officers Benjamin Barker and Hank Bausch, who joined the crowd in supporting this meaningful event.
Flossmoor School District 161 Superintendent Dana Smith, along with school board president David Linnear, lit the Kinara on the fourth night, focusing on the principle of cooperative economics. They were joined by Flossmoor Mayor Michelle Nelson, adding weight to the occasion.
Village Engagement Manager Stephanie Wright was on hand to guide the officials in lighting the electrical candles. Sparkmon expressed her pride in taking part, stating, “The red represents blood and struggle. The green represents prosperity.” Her sentiment reflected the deep connection residents have with their heritage.
Charnelle Dunlap, a Flossmoor resident, attended the Kinara lighting to honor her late mother, who championed the principle of self-determination. “It’s really important to be here for this event,” Smith stated, highlighting the gathering’s significance.
During his address, Smith emphasized the importance of collaboration between the school district and the village, stating they’re committed to nurturing future citizens while also supporting local families and businesses. Linnear, adorned in a traditional Kente cloth and Kufi cap, reminisced about introducing Kwanzaa to his children, showing how deeply ingrained these values are in the community.
“Sometimes we want to be individualized. Sometimes we want to work in a cooperative group environment,” Linnear explained, linking the principles of self-reliance and cooperative economics. The celebrations in Flossmoor also followed other winter holiday events, including the lighting of the Christmas tree by Mayor Nelson and Santa Claus and the nightly menorah lighting by Jewish community members during Hanukkah.
Wright expressed her pride in the community’s commitment to these celebrations, regardless of weather challenges. Mayor Nelson noted the unity these events foster, stating, “The principles behind all of them are very similar. How can I be a better person? How can I be more helpful to my neighbors?” Her words encapsulated the spirit of togetherness that Kwanzaa and the other holiday celebrations promote.
