Kwanzaa is a unique African American celebration with focus
on the traditional African values of family, community
responsibility, commerce, and self-improvement.
Kwanzaa is neither political nor religious and despite some
misconceptions, is not a substitute for Christmas. It is
simply a time of reaffirming African-American people, their
ancestors and culture.
Kwanzaa, which means "first fruits of the harvest" in the African
language Kiswahili, has gained tremendous acceptance. Since its
founding in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga, Kwanzaa has come to be
observed by more than18 million people worldwide, as reported by
the New York Times. When establishing Kwanzaa in 1966, Dr. Karenga
included an additional "a" to the end of the spelling to reflect
the difference between the African American celebration (kwanzaa)
and the Motherland spelling (kwanza).
Kwanzaa is based on the Nguzo Saba (seven guiding principles), one
for each day of the observance, and is celebrated from
December 26th to January 1st.
Umoja (oo-MO-jah) Unity stresses the importance of togetherness
for the family and the community, which is reflected in the African
saying, "I am We," or "I am because We are." Black candle is lit.
Kujichagulia (koo-gee-cha-goo-LEE-yah) Self-Determination requires
that we define our common interests and make decisions that are in
the best interest of our family and community. Red candle next to
black candle is lit.
Ujima (oo-GEE-mah) Collective Work and Responsibility reminds us
of our obligation to the past, present and future, and that we
have a role to play in the community, society, and world. Green
candle next to black candle is lit.
Ujamaa (oo-JAH-mah) Cooperative economics emphasizes our
collective economic strength and encourages us to meet common
needs through mutual support. Middle red candle is lit.
Nia (NEE-yah) Purpose encourages us to look within ourselves and
to set personal goals that are beneficial to the community.
Middle green candle is lit.
Kuumba (koo-OOM-bah) Creativity makes use of our creative
energies to build and maintain a strong and vibrant community.
Last red candle is lit.
Imani (ee-MAH-nee) Faith focuses on honoring the best of our
traditions, draws upon the best in ourselves, and helps us strive
for a higher level of life for humankind, by affirming our
self-worth and confidence in our ability to succeed and triumph
in righteous struggle. Last green candle is lit.
Celebrating Kwanzaa is always better when you get an early start.
It is suggested you begin the first week in December by making
a check list for the following items: A Kinara (candle holder);
Mkeka (placemat preferably made of straw); Mazao (crops, i.e.,
fruits and vegetables); Vibunzi/Muhindi (ears of corn to reflect
the number of children in the household); Kikombe cha umoja
(communal unity cup); Mishumaa saba (seven candles, one black,
three red, and three green); and Zawadi (gifts that are enriching).
It is important that the Kinara not be confused with the menorah.*
The Kinara holds seven candles to reflect the seven principles
which are the foundation of Kwanzaa. The Mkeka (place mat)
shouldn't present a problem. While straw is suggested because
it is traditional, cloth makes an adequate substitute. If cloth
is used, one with an African print is preferred. The other
symbols are easy to come by. Use caution against placing the
Mazao (crops)in a cornucopia which is Western. A plain straw
basket or a bowl will do just fine. One last note, even households
without any children should place an ear of corn on the place mat
to symbolize the African concept of social parenthood. All seven
symbols are creatively placed on top of the place mat, i.e., the
symbols should be attractively arranged as they form the
Kwanzaa centerpiece.
The Kinara along with the other symbols of Kwanzaa should
dominate the room, which should be given an African motif.
The colors of Kwanzaa are black, red and green. This should be
kept in mind when decorating the home. Black, red and green
streamers, balloons, cloth, flowers, and African prints can be
hung tastefully around the room. Original art and sculpture may
be displayed as well.
Kuumba (creativity) is greatly encouraged. Not only is Kuumba
one of the seven principles, it also brings a sense of personal
satisfaction and puts one squarely into the spirit of Kwanzaa.
Therefore, those symbols that can be made, should be made. The
giving of gifts during Kwanzaa should be affordable and of an
educational or artistic nature. Gifts are usually exchanged
between parents and children and traditionally given on
January 1st, the last day of Kwanzaa. However, gift giving
during Kwanzaa may occur at any time.
I hope you enjoyed and will practice Kwanzaa.
May your home and life be filled with all 7 principles.