Kwanzaa is a holiday that is celebrated by those with African ancestry. This holiday will be celebrated from December 26th through January 1st. Kwanzaa is a holiday that helps people celebrate the African heritage and cultural beliefs.
How Did Kwanzaa Begin?
Kwanzaa is a unique holiday that was developed by Maulana Karenga and celebrated for the first time from December 26, 1967 to January 1, 1968. Kwanzaa is not only one of the youngest holidays celebrated by many across the world, but also a holiday that provides an opportunity to remember as well as celebrate the African heritage. According to Karenga this holiday was developed to help those with African heritage and ancestry celebrate themselves and their history.
How is Kwanzaa Celebrated?
Kwanzaa focuses on seven principles or Nguzu Saba (The Seven Principles of Blackness) to help those of African ancestry celebrate themselves and their history. Each of the seven days of this holidays focuses on one of the seven principles. Listed below are the seven principles:
- Umoja = Unity
- Kujichagulia = Self-Determination
- Ujima = Collective Work and Responsibility
- Ujamaa = Cooperative Economics
- Nia = Purpose
- Kuumba = Creativity
- Mani = Faith
Families that celebrate Kwanzaa will not only focus on these seven principles, but will also celebrate this holiday by doing the following:
- Women many wear colorful Uwole
- Attend ceremonies to show respect to ancestors
- Read aloud the African Pledge and The Seven Principles of Blackness
- Participate in a candlelight ritual
- Enjoy a large feast
Kwanzaa Websites
There are many websites that provide further information as well as activities that you can use to share more information about what this holiday is about to your children. Listed below are some websites that can provide you additional information about Kwanzaa:
Kwanzaa is a special holiday that provides an opportunity for those with African ancestry to remember.
