Heri za Kwanzaa

 

Kwanzaa is celebrated around Christmas time but it is not a holiday dedicated to gift giving. Kwanzaa is not a religious celebration, either. It is a commemoration of heritage and togetherness. Family and friends find Kwanzaa to be a time of sharing and being together.

Kwanzaa was created by Dr. Maulana Karenga in 1966. Karenga said that he wanted to "give black people an alternative to the existing holiday and an opportunity to celebrate themselves and history, rather than simply imitate the practice of the dominant society.” It is celebrated via song, dancing and recitation of poem. The word Kwanzaa comes from the Swahili phrase matunda ya kwanza (first fruits of the harvest).

Kwanzaa is built on seven principles that are commonly known as "Nguzo Saba". These are:

1. umoja - unity
2. kujichagulia - self-determination
3. ujima - collective work and responsibility
4. ujamaa - cooperative economics
5. nia - purpose
6. kuumba - creativity
7. imani - faith

Kwanzaa celebrations usually last seven days, from December 26 to January 1. Each of the seven days of the celebration is dedicated to one of the seven principles. Every day, a candle is lit that represents each principle.

Some symbols of Kwanzaa include a decorative mat on which other symbols are placed, corn, a kinara (a candle holder for seven candles), a communal cup for beverages, gifts, a poster of the seven principles, and a black, red, and green flag. The symbols were designed to convey the seven principles.

Kwanzaa observers decorate their households with art, colorful African cloth (kente) and fresh fruit. The women wear kaftans. The greeting each day during Kwanzaa is Habari Gani (What’s the news?)

On the evening of Kuumba (December 31) there is a feast called Karamu. This is the main focus of Kwanzaa where cultural expression is encouraged. Karamu generally brings everyone closer to their roots and involves a welcoming statement, remembering ancestors, assessing current situations, a recommitment to values, rejoicing, a goodbye statement, and a call for greater unity.