Kwanzaa is a holiday that is celebrated from December 26th to January 1st. This holiday was created in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga during the black power movement to honor African American people, their struggles in the U.S., their heritage, and their culture. Families gather to give thanks, remembrance, and hope for the new year.
The word Kwanzaa comes from the Swahili language and it means “first fruits of the harvest”. One of the many ways this holiday is celebrated is by lighting a candle every day of Kwanzaa.
These are the seven symbols of Kwanzaa:
- Kinara (Candleholder)
- This a symbol for the African Ancestors.
- Zawadi (Gifts)
- These are symbols of the labor and love of the family.
- Kikombe Cha Umoja (Unity cup)
- This is symbolic of the foundational principle and practice of unity which makes all else possible.
- Mkeka (Kwanzaa mat/place mat)
- This is a symbol for tradition and history, serving as a foundation that everything was built on.
- Vibunzi (Ear of corn)
- This is a symbol of children and the future they represent.
- Mazao (Crops)
- These are a symbol of African harvest celebrations and of the rewards labor.
- Mishumaa Saba (Seven candles)
- These are symbolic of The Seven Principles.
These are the Nguzo Saba (The Seven Principles):
- Umoja (Unity)
- Togetherness in family and communities
- Kujichaggulia (Self-determination)
- Finding out who you are, who you want to be, and what you want to do
- Ujima (Work and Responsibility)
- Working together to support our community
- Ujamaa (Cooperation)
- Supporting and creating African-American stores and businesses
- Nia (Purpose)
- Setting personal goals to make your community strong
- Kuumba (Creativity)
- Finding ways to make your world a better place
- Imani (Faith)
- Believing in yourself and in the people around you
Although every day of Kwanzaa is important, there is a big celebration on December 31st, where families gather and have a large meal called karamu. During this day, families play music, dance, and sing!
The last day of Kwanzaa, families use this day to reflect on their ancestors, their community, and on themselves. On this day, gifts are usually shared.
If you want to learn more about Kwanzaa, check out some of these great books!:
