PITTSFIELD — The second day of Kwanzaa was marked Saturday at Zion Lutheran Church with a community celebration centered on kujichagulia, the principle of self-determination. Hosted by the Women of Color Giving Circle, ROPE, and the Berkshire County NAACP, the gathering brought together music, dance, African drumming, and shared food inspired by the African diaspora.
The evening featured performances by local artists and a panel discussion in which community leaders reflected on how self-determination has shaped their personal and professional journeys. Attended by about 75 people, the celebration highlighted Kwanzaa’s role as a cultural observance that honors African American heritage while fostering reflection, resilience, and collective purpose.