Harambee Heritage:
Our Journey The History
The Krewe of Harambee is a remarkable example of how cultural celebration and community service can come together to make a meaningful impact. Founded in the fall of 2000 by a dedicated group of nine African Americans (Lynn Braggs, Theron Jackson, Richard Johnson, Roxann Johnson, Jerry Paige, Dr. Markey Pierrè, John Samuels, Dorsey Summerfield), the Krewe was established with the mission of enhancing minority involvement in Mardi Gras celebrations while also supporting charitable causes that impacted the African American community.
The name "Harambee," meaning "To Pull Together" in Swahili, reflects the Krewe's core philosophy of unity and collaboration. Their Mardi Gras parade, held annually on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, stands out for its distinctive krewe masks, which are individually crafted and adorned with vibrant paint, glitter, and feathers. These masks, alongside the signature beads, have become highly coveted items during the parade, highlighting the Krewe's unique aesthetic that combines Mardi Gras traditions with elements of African culture.
In addition to the parade, the Krewe of Harambee hosts the annual Hopes and Dreams breakfast, a charitable event that provides $6,000 in scholarships each year to students from single-parent households. Since its inception, this event has awarded over $68,000 in scholarships. The Krewe has also made significant contributions to the Northwest Louisiana Sickle Cell Anemia Foundation, donating more than $34,000 to support education, research, and transportation for those affected by the condition.
Throughout the year, the Krewe of Harambee and its Royal Court Ambassadors engage in various community service activities. They visit nursing homes and schools, and organize a toy drive in December to support local families. These efforts underscore their commitment to improving the community and enriching the lives of its members.
The Krewe of Harambee embodies the spirit of giving and cultural pride, making a lasting difference both through their festive celebrations and their ongoing community outreach.
Laisses les Bon Temps Roulez!
