Kwanzaa begins today and is celebrated every night ending on January 1. You may be asking, what exactly is Kwanzaa? I have to admit I was asking myself that as well, so I did a little research.
Kwanzaa was created as an African American and Pan-African holiday in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Ron Karenga, to celebrate history, values, family, community and culture. Kwanzaa is rooted in first fruit celebrations found in cultures throughout Africa both in ancient and modern times and has much to teach us all.
Each night candles are lit and one of the following seven principles is celebrated.
1. Umoja (Unity)
2. Kujichagulia (Self-Determination)
3. Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility)
4. Uja maa (Cooperative Economics)
5. Nia (Purpose)
6. Kuumba (Creativity)
7. Imani (Faith)
And of course there is food! On day six there is a feast.
The six principles of Kwanzaa are the foundation of civilization. Aren’t these something we should all want to celebrate? I encourage you to learn more.
For more information on Kwanzaa please visit:
National Museum of African History and Culture
Kwanzaa Traditions from Oprah Daily
espirational.com 