Kwanzaa is the very first African American holiday that began in the United States. Kwanzaa is not a substitution for Christmas or any other holiday at the end of the year. Dr. Maulana Karenga formed the very first United States based Kwanzaa celebration in 1965 to help African Americans develop a great sense of identity, purpose and unity.
Celebrations
The celebration begins on December 26th lasting for seven days until January 1st. The word Kwanzaa comes from the Swahili word "Kwanza" and the saying Mantunda Yo Kwanza which means 'first fruits'. The extra 'a' that comes with the United States celebration represents African American values. By celebrating Kwanzaa, African Americans acknowledge their roots.
Principles
Each day that Kwanzaa is celebrated, a principle is promoted to honor that particular day. The first principle celebrated is Umoja or Unity. The first day of Kwanzaa honors commitment to the idea of togetherness. This principle is considered to be the foundation of families and community. The second principle celebrated is Kujichagulia which means self determination. On this day, the focus is on developing and patterning African American lives and images. This self determination is the essence of basic freedoms and a reaffirmation of the commitment towards a meaningful and fulfilling life. The third principle honors collective work and responsibility. The principle encourages reflection and personal evaluation relating to the good of the family and community. This day involves discussions regarding each family member's responsibility toward the achievement of the family goals. The fourth principle of Kwanzaa discusses Cooperative Economic and African Communal living. Families and their communities share ideas to provide housing, food, daycare, education and other services. The fifth principle is Nia or Purpose for living. Family members discuss ways to put their skills and talent to use within the family and community. By discovering purpose, it will result in positive achievements for the family and community. The sixth principle honors creativity and creative potential. Creative new ideas help the family and community achieve a higher level of living and appreciation for life. Celebrations on this day will include storytelling, poetry reading, songs and dance. The final principle of Kwanzaa celebrations is Imani or Faith. Belief and commitment to the development of family and the national African American community.
Habari Gani
Once the celebration begins, the leader (Mfume) says "Habari Gani" meaning "What is the news?" The response is the principle that is honored that day. Gifts can be exchanged during Kwanzaa but are not necessary. The celebration is a time to rejoice and reflect. Symbols of Kwanzaa are mazao (crops), mkeka (mat), kinara (candleholder), vibunzi (ears of corn), mishumaa saba (seven cangles), ziwadi (gifts) and kikombe cha umola (the unity cup). The candles represent the principles. The candles and candleholder is placed on the mkeka (mat) with the other items placed around it.
At the ceremony, food is shared. The kikombe cha umola (unity cup) is passed person to person while positive things are shared. The candle is lit on the appropriate day. Kwanzaa is the time to lift each other up and to give thanks.
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