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Kwanzaa (Quansa) is a holiday celebrated by many African-Americans. It is held
December 26th through January 1st. It was started in 1966 by Doctor Maulana
Karenga, Professor at the California State University, Long Beach, California.
The seven day celebration encourages people to think about their African roots as well as their life in present day America. Kwanzaa is based on African festivals. The word means "the first fruits."
Umoja (unity) to strive
for and maintain unity in the family, community, nation and race. Kujichagulia (self-determination)
to define ourselves, name ourselves, create for ourselves and speak for
ourselves. Ujima (collective work
and responsibility) to build and maintain our community together and make
our sister's and brother's problems our problems and to solve them
together. Ujamaa (cooperative
economics) to build and maintain our own stores, shops, and other
businesses together. Nia (purpose) to make
our collective vocation the building of our community to restore our
people to their traditional greatness. Kuumba (creativity) to
do as much as we can to leave our community more beautiful and beneficial
than we inherited it. Imani (faith) to believe
with our hearts in our people, our parents, our teachers, our leaders and
the righteousness and victory of our struggle.
Ritual - The
Kinara is placed atop the
Mkeka. The Mishumaa
Saba represent the
Nguzo Saba. Each candle represents a distinct principle beginning with
Umoja. Candles are then lit each day alternately from left to right. Three
green candles should be placed on the left and three red candles should be
placed on the right.
Original Kwanzaa Page design by Albion Design
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Last Revised: November 20, 2008 06:06 PM.
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