Kwanzaa

About Kwanzaa:

Kwanzaa is a unique African American celebration with focus on the traditional African values of family, community responsibility, commerce, and self-improvement. Kwanzaa starts on December 26th and ends on January 1st. Kwanzaa is neither political nor religious and despite some misconceptions, is not a substitute for Christmas. Kwanzaa means "first fruits of the harvest" in the African language Kiswahili. 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).

This holiday is assumed to be based on an ancient African harvest. It is celebrated for seven days just like this harvest. The days are as listed: 1) gathering of the people 2) special reverence for the Creator and creation, especially thanksgiving and commitment 3) commemoration of the past, especially to the ancestors 4) re-commitment to our highest ethical and cultural values, especially Nguzo Saba and 5) celebration of the Good life, especially family, community and culture.

Fun Facts:

• Kwanzaa is represented into 7 symbols which are:
  1) Mazao-Crops
  2) Mkeka-Place mat
  3) Kinara-Candle holder
  4) Mishumaa Saba-Seven candles
  5) Muhindi- Ears of corn
  6) Zawadi-Gifts
  7) Kikombe Cha Umoja-Unity cup
• The ears of corn reflect the number if children in ones home.

Activities:

• Allow an African American elder to explain to you what Kwanzaa means to him or her.
• Have fellowship with your family.
• Do an activity that gives back to your community. Work at a homeless shelter, help serve at a soup kitchen, anything like those listed that would help your community.