What is Kwanzaa?

In recent years, I have become acquainted with the African-American observance called Kwanzaa. Kwanzaa is celebrated from December twenty-sixth through January first. The seven day celebration was created by Dr. Maulana Karenga, a professor in the department of Black Studies at California State University, in 1966. Kwanzaa is not a holiday in the strict sense; it is a celebration of the observance of seven principles of the African community. Each day of Kwanzaa, gifts are exchanged, usually a book of history or inspiration and a small item symbolizing the principle of the day. These principles reaffirm the bond and shared history between all peoples of African origin. This article sheds light on the after Christmas observance and its seven basic principles.

Day One: Umoja
The most widely spoken language among the African nations is Swahili. All of the principles have been given a name in Swahili along with the English translation. Umoja means "unity". The first day of the Kwanzaa celebration stresses unity in family, in the community, and within the African race. No matter where they live throughout the world, all African descendents share a common bond as a race of people.

Day Two: Kujichagulia
The second day of Kwanzaa is all about the individual. Kujichagulia means "self-determination". We have to take the time to examine ourselves. What do we believe? Who are we? The life that we live today determines the legacy we will leave behind. It is imperative that children understand their importance in the grand scheme of the world.

Day Three: Ujima
The third day of Kwanzaa is a time of focus on others. Ujima stands for "collective work and responsibility". The cultural dynamic in an African tribe is one of cooperation within the community. The success on one is tied into the success of all. This principle mimics the biblical concept of bearing one another's burdens.

Day Four: Ujamaa
The fourth day of Kwanzaa teaches economic interdependence. Ujamaa means "cooperative economics". In a village, everyone helps in the planting, cultivating, and harvesting of the crops. Each person has their own job and an equal share of the profits. Utilizing cooperative economics in our communities will help all to experience economic freedom.

Day Five: Nia
The fifth day of Kwanzaa focuses on why we are here on earth. Nia means "purpose". What is our life's purpose? Education is an important part of life. Teaching the next generation the history of their culture gives them a foundation of knowledge. Sharing the accomplishments of the African culture instills a sense of pride in us.

Day Six: Kuumba
The sixth day of Kwanzaa focuses on the imagination. Kuumba means "creativity". Every person has a gift inside of them that needs to be shared with the community. The goal of a life is to leave the world a better place than we found it. Dreaming and achieving helps us do just that.

Day Seven: Imani
The seventh day of Kwanzaa is a day of exploring your personal beliefs. Imani means "belief". Kwanzaa is a celebration of culture with no religious affiliations. No matter what our spirituality or religion, Imani focuses on exploring the beliefs at the heart of African culture and understanding the historical significance.

The celebration of Kwanzaa is not meant to segregate African-Americans but to teach people of color to incorporate an understanding of their history into their lives. We are all human beings that have evolved from different walks of life depending on where and when our ancestors lived. That understanding makes each of us a better person-able to share all of our attributes with the global community.