The Harambee organization promotes African identity. Harambee, which means "unity" or "working together" in Swahili, also indicates the desire of club members to educate students about the many countries in Africa. Harambee encourages all students to reach across racial borders to understand their culture and other cultures.
Goals
- Dispelling common stereotypes about African identity and culture
- Increasing awareness of African diversity and multiculturalism
- Exploring cultural, social, and political issues of the African diaspora to discuss with all students and members of the community
- Communicating to reduce the division between Africa and other communities
In order to constantly promote awareness and education about other cultures, Harambee has worked with many other campus organizations, including ABLE.
Past events
- Harambee soccer tournament which also doubles as a fundraiser for local charities held on campus where students enjoy friendly competition amongst their peers to win prizes at the end of the day. The day includes music, a barbecue, and selling custom made shirts that boast Harambee's logo.
- African Week, a week filled with festivities that engage the Knox community in African culture. Daily activities may include bead and dancing workshops, a film showing, a guest speaker from one of Knox's many great faculty members, and ends with the Cultural Show at the end of the week. The Cultural Show is an event in itself including a fashion show, a theatrical performance, a dance show, and a dinner for guests.
- Harambee Formal is an annual affair that exec members throw specifically for members of Harambee to celebrate their hard work and dedication during the year. Although the Knox community is welcome to join in the celebration, we throw the formal to thank our members for another great year's work. Members and the Knox community are invited to dress up and dance and eat the food that is provided.
Harambee wishes to include not only our Knox community but also residents of Galesburg in its activities and discussions. The group constantly fights to break down the divide between Africans and other cultures around the world.
