Education Holidays What Is Kwanzaa?

What Is Kwanzaa?

In 1966 Dr. Maulana Karenga created a uniquely African American and Pan-African holiday called Kwanzaa, which is celebrated from December through January first. Kwanzaa is related to many African celebrations of the first harvest. The name Kwanzaa comes from a Swahili phrase “matunda ya kwanza,” which translates as first fruits.

In African-American culture Kwanzaa is a time for five fundamental activities:

To reestablish interpersonal bonds

To express reverence to the creator

To commemorate and honor ancestors

To commit to following cultural ideals

To celebrate life, family, community and culture

Kwanzaa recognizes and celebrates these 7 principles of African culture:

Umoja (unity): To work towards unity with others whether family members or members of a larger community.

Kujichagulia (self-determination): To define oneself and find one’s unique voice in the world

Ujima (collective work and responsibility): To cooperate in community building and problem solving

Ujamaa (cooperation): To build and sustain business from which the community as a whole profits

Nia (purpose): To collectively strive towards cultural unity based on tradition

Kuumba (creativity): To use our creativity to improve our community

Imani (faith): To believe in each other, our leaders, and the righteousness of our struggle

During Kwanzaa, children receive gifts of books and heritage symbols. The book represents the value of learning recognized since ancient Egypt and the symbol is to remind the child of his or her commitment to African traditions.

Kwanzaa colors are red, green, and black. A mat (called a mkeka) is laid on a table and decorated with 7 candles representing the 7 principles and one is lit on each day of Kwanzaa. Ears of corn are placed on the mkeka, along with a unity cup (called a kikombe cha umoja) for pouring libations in honor of the ancestors. The mkeka is also decorated with beautiful art objects and books that represent the best that African culture has to offer.

The final day of Kwanzaa is set aside for reflection. Celebrants spend this day in quiet contemplation and maintain a peaceful, humble attitude towards others. It is a time for individuals to answer three questions:

Who am I?

Am I really who I say I am?

Am I all I ought to be?

Answering these questions honestly can bring about a renewed commitment to being the best we can be and to honoring the time honored African cultural traditions. Kwanzaa does not reflect any religion but rather plays tribute to ancient cultural values and traditions.