What is Kwanzaa and how is it celebrated?
Kwanzaa is a holiday and those who celebrate do so each December, from the 26th to January 1st. However, it may be surprising to know that Kwanzaa was only recently came about in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga; Professor and Chairman of Black Studies at California State University, Long Beach. It was created during a time of social uprisings against racism, and was to re-establish community and to enlighten African Americans of their African culture.
Kwanzaa history
Dr. Karenga wanted a way to form more community within the African American people after the black power movement of the mid 1960’s and early 1970’s. In his research of African “first fruit” (known as the harvest) celebrations he combined parts of several celebrations from the Ashanti to the Zulu. Finally the holiday and name became Kwanzaa which means “first fruits” in Swahili.
Celebrations
Typical celebrations include song, dance, African drums, storytelling and traditional food during the seven-night holiday. A child lights one candle on the Kinara (candleholder) then the individuals speak about one of the seven principles. Finally, on December 31 an African feast is held called a Karamu.
Seven principles
The principles known as the Nguzo Saba (seven principles in Swahili) and they’re values of African culture. Further, the values contribute to building and reinforcing community among African-Americans.
Seven Symbols
There are seven basic symbols of Kwanza that represent values and concepts of African culture. The principles (Nguzo Saba) are a set of ideas and each day of Kwanzaa focuses on a different one.
Kwanzaa is a unique holiday with heartfelt principles. This holiday isn’t a substitute for Christmas and many households celebrate both.
