On December 9th 2006, the Archonettes of Delta Mu Zeta chapter held their first Z-HOPE workshop entitled, “Kwanzaa: It’s A Family Thing”. The Facilitator for this event was Patrice Ward, currently of DMZ and the workshop was facilitated at the Countee Cullen Beacon of The Harlem Children’s Zone in Harlem, NY. This well-attended event was enjoyed by all, as Patrice was an excellent choice to bring knowledge of the week-long celebration.

Those in attendance enthusiastically learned of the seven principles of Kwanzaa: Umoja, Kujichaguila, Ujima, Ujamaa, Nia, Kuumba & Imani. Though some of the participants had heard of Kwanzaa (A seven day non-religious observance from December 26th – January 1st), many didn’t have an in-depth knowledge of this celebration or what it represents. The community also learned of the man who foundeded Kwanzaa, Mr. Ron Karenga and Patrice taught the youth what the seven symbols of Kwanzaa represent. Everyone really seemed to enjoy the workshop as a whole, however they all really took a keen interest in Libation, as the entire group simulated a Libation ritual.

Habari Gani (which means “What’s the news” in Swahili) is the official statement of Kwanzaa, and as it stands, the “news” is that this workshop, involving the 7 Days, 7 Principles & 7 Symbols of Kwanzaa as community-family was a great start to what the Archonettes of DMZ plan to bring to the table with regard to Z-HOPE over the next couple of months.