Kwanzaa is an African American holiday celebrated by millions throughout the African diaspora. Kwanzaa is not a religious holiday however it is a celebration. Kwanzaa is an African American and Pan-African holiday which celebrates family, community and culture.
Celebrated from 26 December thru 1 January, its origins are in the first harvest celebrations of Africa from which it takes its name. Kwanzaa was born in 1966 as a seven-day holiday honoring African heritage and takes its name from the phrase “matunda ya kwanza,” which in Swahili means “first fruits.”
It’s cultural message is embodied in the following seven Kwanza principles: Umoja/Unity, Kujichagulia/Self-Determination, Ujima/Collective Work & Responsibility, Ujamaa/Cooperative Economics, Nia/Purpose, Kuumba/Creativity & Imani/Faith. Participants celebrate by lighting a candle each day to honor each corresponding principle by sharing what each principle means to them through narratives, story telling, poetry readings, music and food. On the last day there is reflection and recommitment to the seven principles.
For more info visit https://www.officialkwanzaawebsite.org/
