Winter Lights: Näri Penson
It sure is dark out there. And during this season of long nights and short, short days, VFC staff have connected with Vermonters from a variety of backgrounds to explore how people share light—both literally and metaphorically—during the darkest time of the year.
“Part of Kwanzaa is learning about your ancestry and your cultural and family traditions...
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We spoke to Näri Penson, Winooski resident and retired elementary school teacher, who organized annual Kwanzaa celebrations at the Schoolhouse Learning Center, a holiday commemorating African American heritage and unity. Now in its 36th year, Näri reflected on the importance of honoring family, ancestors and community and how the seven principles of Kwanzaa help relate these values in our daily lives.
This year, the Schoolhouse celebrates a virtual Kwanzaa with its students and school community. Our deep gratitude to Näri for making this African American holiday a lasting tradition for Vermont students. Scroll through a slideshow of photos from past Kwanzaa celebrations below. Thanks to Liz Shayne, Head of School at the Schoolhouse, for sharing these images:
This seasonal segment is part of the Vermont Folklife Center’s Listening in Place project, a program that fosters connections between Vermonters throughout the pandemic and beyond. Click below to learn more about Listening in Place and tell us how you are sharing light this season: