Happy Kwanzaa
from
Assemblymember
Rodneyse
Bichotte Hermelyn
Kwanzaa, which begins today and continues through January 1, is a celebration of African-American culture[1]. The holiday was created in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga, a professor of Africana studies, looking for ways to unite the community. Kwanzaa is based on several harvest celebrations.

Each day of Kwanzaa emphasizes a different core principle or "Nguzo Saba", such as Umoja (unity), Kujichagulia (self-determination) and Ujima (collective work and responsibility)[2]. Celebrations often include songs and dances, African drums, storytelling, poetry reading, and a large traditional meal[3]. A child typically lights one of the candles on the Kinara (candleholder). An African feast, called a Karamu, is held on the last night before the new year.

Assemblymember Rodneyse Bichotte wishes you a Kwanzaa filled with light, joy and purpose, and may we celebrate togetherness even when we are separated by distance.

Assemblymember Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn represents the 42nd Assembly District in Brooklyn covering Ditmas Park, Flatbush, East Flatbush and Midwood. She is currently the Chair of the Subcommittee on Oversight of Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (MWBEs), Chair of the Task Force on Women's Issues and serves on the following committees: Housing, Government Operations, Education, Banks, Health, and Higher Education. She also sits on Governor Hochul's Domestic Violence Advisory Council and Mayor De Blasio's MWBE Task Force.

As a current Assemblymember, District Leader, and Chair of Brooklyn Democratic Party, Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn has been an outspoken advocate on issues concerning immigration, education, economic development, unemployment, education reform, health care access, senior citizen centers, affordable housing, school safety, women's and LGBTQ rights, as well as other issues affecting the quality of life in the community.

Learn more about
Rodneyse Bichotte by visiting her website at