Wakeso Peterson, Jr., was steeped in the principles of Kwanzaa starting as an infant. He grew up studying hard at school, participating in his community and athletics, setting goals, and achieving excellence. He graduated from Scott High School in 2020 and entered Bowling Green University as a HOPE Promise Scholar. In 2024, he earned a degree in architecture, the first in the program to graduate with a bachelor’s degree.
In this 2002 Blade archive photo, Wakeso, 9 months, sits in with the Drums of Thunder with Michael Hayes, left, and Kewape, during a Kwanzaa program at the Main Toledo-Lucas County Public Library. Kwanzaa is an annual celebration of African-American culture from Dec. 26 to Jan. 1. It was created by activist Maulana Karenga, based on African harvest festival traditions from various parts of West, East, and Southeast Africa. The seven principles of Kwanzaa, celebrated on successive days are: Unity, Self-determination, Collective Work and Responsibility, Cooperative Economics, Purpose, Creativity and Faith…