Kwanzaa is an African American celebration that originated in 1966 by founder Dr. Maulana Karenga. It is a cultural celebration more than religious one. The term "Kwanzaa" means first fruits of the harvest in Swahili. It is observed from December 26th through January 1st to celebrate the heritage of the African-American people and learn about our ancestors. It is a way to support the community and give thanks for the good things in life. The focus is not on giving a gift each day, although it can be a part of the celebration. Kwanzaa is more about learning who we are as a people and preparing our children and ourselves for the future.
Their are seven days of Kwanzaa which represent the seven principles that they are founded on. The principles are called the Nguzo Saba (Seven Principles in Swahili). It is also celebrated by using the Kinara (Candle Holder) There are seven candles that are lit over the seven days. One candle for each principle. By the end of the seven days each candle is lit and all seven burn together. One black, three red and three green candles which collectively represent the people, the land and our ancestors.
Homes in which Kwanzaa is celebrated are decorated with the colors, red, green and black as well as other symbols like the Mkeka (Woven straw mat) Muhindi (Corn), Mazao (Fruits or Vegatables), Zawadi (Simple handmade Afrocentric gifts and books), Kinara (Seven branched candle holder), Kikombe cha umoja (Unity Cup), and the Mishumaa saba (Seven candles).
Each Day of Kwanzaa is started with "Habari gani" Which is what's the news? The return answer is the principle of the day. Today the response is Ujima, which is collective work and responsibility.
For the last day of Kwanzaa it is celebrated with a Karamu or "Feast". This day begins the new year and it is a time to learn from our past learn about our present and look to our future. The Karamu will have traditional African dishes as well as other foods to celebrate the occasion. It is time of family and community.
For more information about Kwanzaa its meaning and ways to celebrate it, please go to: www.officialkwanzaawebsite.org
Their are seven days of Kwanzaa which represent the seven principles that they are founded on. The principles are called the Nguzo Saba (Seven Principles in Swahili). It is also celebrated by using the Kinara (Candle Holder) There are seven candles that are lit over the seven days. One candle for each principle. By the end of the seven days each candle is lit and all seven burn together. One black, three red and three green candles which collectively represent the people, the land and our ancestors.
Homes in which Kwanzaa is celebrated are decorated with the colors, red, green and black as well as other symbols like the Mkeka (Woven straw mat) Muhindi (Corn), Mazao (Fruits or Vegatables), Zawadi (Simple handmade Afrocentric gifts and books), Kinara (Seven branched candle holder), Kikombe cha umoja (Unity Cup), and the Mishumaa saba (Seven candles).
Each Day of Kwanzaa is started with "Habari gani" Which is what's the news? The return answer is the principle of the day. Today the response is Ujima, which is collective work and responsibility.
For the last day of Kwanzaa it is celebrated with a Karamu or "Feast". This day begins the new year and it is a time to learn from our past learn about our present and look to our future. The Karamu will have traditional African dishes as well as other foods to celebrate the occasion. It is time of family and community.
For more information about Kwanzaa its meaning and ways to celebrate it, please go to: www.officialkwanzaawebsite.org
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