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Kwanzaa is a week-long secular holiday that celebrates
African American heritage. Each year it is celebrated from
Decemeber 26th, to January 1st. Kwanzaa was founded by a
black nationalist by the name of Ron Karenga in 1966. The
name is derived from the Swahili phrase, "matunda ya
kwanza" which means "first fruits."
The additional "a" was added to represent the
seven children in the United Slaves Organization at the
time. Karenga also wanted the seven letters to represent
the "Seven Principles of Blackness." Each one
of the principles represent one day of the celebration,
which are as follows: umoja (unity), kujichagulia (self-determination),
ujima (collective work and responsibility), ujmaa (cooperative
economics), nia (purpose), kuumba (creativity), imani (faith).
Kwanzaa was established as a means to help African Americans
reconnect with their African culture and heritage. It was
originally created by Karenga to spread offensive views
about the Christian Faith.
During Kwanzaa, people decorate their houses with colorful
art and African cloth. Fresh fruits are put out on tables
as centerpieces to represent African idealism. The colors
of Kwanzaa are black, which represents the people, red,
which represents struggle, and green which represents the
future. During the celebration, observers must choose a
central place in their homes for the symbols of Kwanzaa.
The celebration includes drumming and musical selections,
libations, which are a reading of the "African Pledge"
and the Principles of Blackness, a reflection of Pan-African
colors, a candle lighting ritual, artistic performances,
and a feast. Zawadi (gifts) such as books and heritage symbols
are given to the children.
Each day, observers greet each other with, "Habri
Gani" which means "What's the news?"
The last day of Kwanzaa is the first day of the New Year;
it is a day of self-reflection and reflection on life and
future of people, and the recommitment of one's highest
cultural values.
Kwanzaa celebrates family, community and culture. The holiday
is built on the five fundamental activities of the continental
African "first fruit" celebration which are: ingathering,
reverence, commemoration, recommitment, and celebration.
Although it may seem like it, Kwanzaa is NOT a religious
holiday; it is a celebration of heritage and culture.
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