Kwanzaa is an annual family celebration of African American culture that lasts from December 26 to January 1.
Founded by Dr. Maulana Karenga in 1966, the name “Kwanzaa” comes from the Swahili saying matunda ya kwanza, or “first fruits of the harvest.”
The celebration is centered around the Nguzo Saba, which are the seven guiding principles that are recognized each day.
The seven principles of Kwanzaa are:
- Umoja (Unity)
- Kujichagulia (Self-Determination)
- Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility)
- Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics)
- Nia (Purpose)
- Kuumba (Creativity)
- Imani (Faith)
The primary symbols of Kwanzaa are:
- Mazao (crops): Represents African harvest celebrations and rewards of productive and collective labor.
- Mkeka (mat): Represents our tradition, history and foundation.
- Kinara (candle holder): Symbolic of Africa, our roots and our people.
- Muhindi (corn): Represents our children and our future.
- Kikombe cha Umoja (unity cup): Symbolic of the foundational principle and practice of unity.
- Mishumaa Saba (seven candles): Symbolic of the Nguzo Saba, or the seven principles.
- Zawadi (gifts): Represents the labor and love of parents and the commitments made and kept by the children.
On each day of Kwanzaa, a candle is lit for that day’s principle on your candleholder (Kinara). The Karamu is a communal feast that usually happens on the sixth day.
May this celebration of community, unity and culture bring you and your family much reflection. What principle resonates with you the most?
