City Council:
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF MOUNT VERNON, NEW YORK
HONORING AND RECOGNIZING THE SERVICE
OF WAKANDA CELEBRATION, INCORPORATED
Whereas, the great City of Mount Vernon, NY, joins the community in recognizing the service of WAKANDA CELEBRATION, INCORPORATED to the community for seven years; and
Whereas, WAKANDA CELEBRATION INCORPRATED was founded by Rose Luangisa. The purpose and mission of the organization are to educate, unite, and bring about positive change in the community; and
Whereas, WAKANDA CELEBRATION, INCORPRATED, is a free annual outdoor community event that successfully celebrates African culture through art, music, fashion, and food. The well-anticipated event features a variety of educational activities for children, live music, traditional African drumming and dancing, an African market that features food, and apparel from local vendors and the Swahili Children’s Village; which provides engaging workshops and programs for children; and
Whereas, Rose Luangisa was born in Bukoba, Tanzania. She came to the United States in 1987 and earned both a B.S. in Computer Information Systems and an MBA from Iona University. Her vision started with the African Family Day, which was held at Mount Vernon’s Memorial Field. With its popularity and growth in attendance, the African Family Day was reimagined and renamed to the WAKANDA CELEBRATION, INCORPRATED in 2018. In addition to the Wakanda Celebration, Rose Luangisa, along with the Luangisa family established The Luangisa African Gallery. In 2022, Rose Luangisa founded the Luangisa African Museum & Cultural Arts Center. The Museum and Arts Center keeps its base in Mount Vernon, NY and is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich heritage of African arts, history, and traditions. The goal is to provide the community with a deeper understanding and appreciation of African culture and foster dialogue and engagement between people of all backgrounds; Now, Therefore, be it
Resolved, that the City Council joins with the City of Mount Vernon, NY citizens to recognize and honor WAKANDA CELEBRATION, INCORPRATED, for their positive impact, commitment, and dedication to our great city for seven successful years. We wish you many more successful years to come.