WHEREAS, ODUNDE is an annual African-American holiday festival that celebrates the coming of another year and the opportunity for renewal for African-Americans; and
WHEREAS,
The festival began in 1975, modeled after the experiences of Ms. Lois Fernandez when she attended the annual African festival of Oshun held in Oshogbo, Nigeria; and
WHEREAS, It is an occasion marked by joy and hope, a joy which is highlighted by a colorful procession to the Schuylkill River where offerings of fruit and flowers are made to Oshun, the Goddess of Love and Rivers; and
WHEREAS,
The scope and magnitude of the festival has steadily increased. Attendance at the festival has surpassed 300,000, it has earned international recognition and has attracted acclaimed performers of the African Diaspora; and
WHEREAS, ODUNDE has expanded from a one day event to a year round organization as ODUNDE, Inc. now serves school age children, as well as others, with cultural programs and activities; and
WHEREAS, Throughout its 25 year history ODUNDE has been a model for promoting joy togetherness and understanding to all Philadelphians; now therefore
RESOLVED, BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF PHILADELPHIA, That we honor ODUNDE and its founder, Lois Fernandez, on the occasion of the 25th Anniversary of the festival.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Lois Fernandez as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body.
End