African American residents of Flossmoor, including village and school district officials, lit the Kinara in Flossmoor Park every night of Kwanzaa from Dec. 26 until Jan. 1.

Kwanzaa is the annual, week-long holiday that honors African American and Pan-African culture, history, community and values.

Village administrative assistant Torria Sparkmon lit the kinara on the second day of Kwanzaa, when the principle of self-determination is celebrated. Flossmoor police officers Benjamin Barker and Hank Bausch stood in the audience.

Flossmoor School District 161 Superintendent Dana Smith and school board president David Linnear lit the Kinara on the fourth day, when the principle of cooperative economics is celebrated. Flossmoor Mayor Michelle Nelson stood in the audience.

Village Engagement Manager Stephanie Wright assisted the Kinara lighters, showing them how to turn on the electrical candles.

“The red represents blood and struggle. The green represents prosperity,” Sparkmon said, explaining the meaning of the colors on the Kinara, adding that she felt honored to light it in Flossmoor Park. “I’m proud because it does represent part of my heritage.”

Flossmoor resident Charnelle Dunlap attended the Kinara lighting on the second night with family members. She said she wanted to honor her late mother, who deeply believed in the principle of self-determination.

“It’s really important to be here for this event,” Smith said in his speech.

Speaking on the principle of cooperative economics, Smith said the school district and village work together to “develop future citizens,” adding that they “not only build our students but support our parents and local businesses.”

Linnear wore a Kente cloth and Kufi cap to the event. He said his kids are in their late 30s and that he started practicing Kwanzaa with them when they were about 10 years old.

“Sometimes we want to be individualized. Sometimes we want to work in a cooperative group environment,” Linnear said, explaining how the principles of self-reliance and cooperative economics tie into one another. “In terms of Kwanzaa, we really want to practice those things that allow us to build upon the strengths and resources that we have.”

Flossmoor’s Kwanzaa celebration followed other lighting ceremonies in Flossmoor Park, celebrating other winter holidays. Santa Claus and Flossmoor Mayor Michelle Nelson lit the Christmas tree on Nov. 9. Jewish community members lit the menorah every night of Hanukkah.

Wright said she was proud that all the lighting ceremonies took place each day, regardless of the weather.

“It’s nice to see everybody together in unity,” Nelson said, pointing to the Christmas tree, the menorah and the Kinara in Flossmoor Park. “The principles behind all of them are very similar. How can I be a better person? How can I be more helpful to my neighbors and supportive of those around me? And even outreach to those in need.”