PROGRAMS

Kwanzaa

Kwanzaa is an African American winter holiday celebrated from December 26 2006 Kwanzaa Celebration through January 1 and is observed here at Cal Poly Pomona the Thursday before finals week as a collaboration between the Ethnic and Women's Studies African American Experience Class and the African American Student Center. It was created in 1966 by Ron Maulana Karenga. Kwanzaa is taken from the Swahili word kwanza, meaning “first.” An extra “a” was added to the end of the word to give it seven letters, representing the holiday’s seven principles: The Nguzo Saba: [Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self-Determination), Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility), Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), Kuumba (Creativity), Imani (Faith)].

Black History Month

Black History Week was founded in 1929 by Carter G. Woodson. In 1976 it was expanded to a month long celebration. The purpose of Black History Month at Elder's Honored Cal Poly Pomona is to acknowledge the progress, richness, diversity and contributions that Blacks/African Americans have made locally, nationally and globally. The AASC works to promote these contributions through cultural and educational programs, events and celebrations in collaboration with the Black student clubs and organizations, the Black Faculty and Staff Association, students and community members and the campus at large.

Diversity Ambassador

A culturally diverse group of students experience the rich history of the Civil Rights 2007 Diversity Ambassadors Movement or the Underground Railroad by traveling across the United States. They are challenged to identify the legacy they intend to leave as individuals. Students can receive 6 units of academic credit through the Ethnic and Women’s Studies department. The application process begins in the fall for the Diversity Ambassador program and the trip occurs during spring break.

Pan African Graduation Celebration

This community celebration began in 1993, and acknowledges that students of African 2007 PAGC descent have successfully completed their degree programs. 4.3 percent of the overall student population is of African descent, and this specialized ceremony allows students to celebrate their graduation from Cal Poly Pomona in an atmosphere that honors their cultural heritage.

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Pan African Graduation Celebration

This community celebration began in 1993, and acknowledges that students of African descent have successfully completed their degree programs. 4.3 percent of the overall student population is of African descent, and this specialized ceremony allows students to celebrate their graduation from Cal Poly Pomona in an atmosphere that honors their cultural heritage.

2007 PAGC