Colorado Matters Dec. 26, 2025: A Kwanzaa extravaganza and a singer who lives the principles everyday!
Dec 26, 2025
Seneku Donald, founder of Denver's Iwaday drumming ensemble, shares her journey connecting African drumming to community healing during Kwanzaa celebrations. She discusses the ensemble’s role in fostering unity and preserving culture. Seneku reflects on the guiding principles of Kwanzaa, especially creativity. Additionally, singer-songwriter Such reveals how her nursing experiences in Haiti propelled her musical career, emphasizing the healing power of art and her community-focused aspirations, all while navigating multiple career paths.
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Kwanzaa Is A Cultural, Not Religious, Practice
- Kwanzaa centers on seven principles intended to guide community life year-round, not just during the holiday.
- Celebrations include lighting the kinara, shared meals, music, dancing, and emphasizing homemade gifts and cultural education.
Iwaday: Drumming For Healing And Community
- Senna Donald founded Iwaday, an intergenerational women's African drum and dance ensemble in Denver.
- The group focuses on healing, love, laughter, community, and performing across Colorado at cultural events.
A Kwanzaa Rap Teaches Seven Principles
- Old Man Saxon and students created and performed a Kwanzaa rap teaching each of the seven principles.
- The song breaks down Umoja, kujichagulia, Ujima, Ujamaa, Nia, Kuumba, and Imani into kid-friendly verses.