The ceremony included a keynote speech from Maria del Carmen Rodriguez. The youth speaker was Mah’dee Naylor, Jr. The Springfield Kwanzaa Collective also recognized three individuals for their activism and efforts in the community. The awardees were Paris Lizana, Janet Disco and Bettye Anderson Frederic.
Mayor Sarno and Councilor Click-Bruce presented the awardees with citations to recognize them for their commitment and dedication to our community.
Mayor Sarno stated, “I want to thank Councilor Lavar Click-Bruce, my Mayoral Aide Shenell Ford, Ayanna Crawford and the Springfield Kwanzaa Collective for putting together a wonderful Kwanzaa Celebration here at City Hall. This annual event celebrates the faith, community, and African-American culture and the roots and traditions of this holiday. It’s all about coming together. Congratulations to all of the awardees and thank you for all that you do for our community. On behalf of the City of Springfield, best wishes for a Happy Kwanzaa and Happy New Year!”
The ceremony also included an African drumming performance and a ceremonial lighting of the Kinara.
