One of the disadvantages of living in another country is that uniquely American holidays (such as the Fourth of July and Thanksgiving) are not recognized which means that we still have to go to work unless we use a vacation day. On the flip side, we do get to celebrate Kenya’s holidays. Kenyatta Day, celebrated on October 20th, honors all the heroes who died fighting for independence and was named after Kenya’s founding president, Jomo Kenyatta. The new constitution (adopted only a few months ago) renamed this holiday “Mashujaa Day” (meaning Heroes’ Day). In a speech today, President Kibaki stated, “Mashujaa are men and women who have made a lasting mark in the lives of fellow Kenyans and in the history and development of our country. They are men and women who have taken great risks in service to save, advance and protect their fellow citizens. These are also men and women whose hard work, courage and perseverance have had a great impact on the socio-economic well being of our people.”
Photo: Mzee Jomo Kenyatta
We had our own little Heroes’ Day celebration tonight at Alyssa’s house. Those in attendance each shared about personal heroes, almost all of whom were family members -- grandfathers, grandmothers, mothers, & fathers. We appreciate all the heroes in our lives who have influenced us and given us a wonderful heritage. Happy Mashujaa Day!
This photo was taken on 20/10/2010 @ 20:10PM!!
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