Some people celebrate the pagan holiday Christmas while some people celebrate Hanukkah. I feel as though one holiday that is over looked and misunderstood is Kwanzaa. I have only had the opportunity to celebrate Kwanzaa twice in my life but I plan on making it a tradition for my family to celebrate annually especially when I become a parent myself.
So What is Kwanzaa? What is About? Pan-African observance transcending the various nationalities, languages, religions, and political orientations of Black people. Kwanzaa is about history and family it is an African American cultural holiday conceived and developed by Dr. Maulana Ron Karenga, first celebrated December 26, 1966.
Traditionally celebrated from December 26 through January 1 each day focuses on Nguzo Saba, also known as the Seven Principles. Derived from the Swahili phrase "matunda ya kwanza" which means "first fruits" Kwanzaa is rooted in the first harvest celebrations practiced in various cultures in Africa.
Purpose of Kwanzaa
The purpose of Kwanzaa seeks to enforce a connectedness to African cultural identity, provide a focal point for the gathering of African peoples. Born out of the whirlwind of social and political changes of the 1960s.
Unity ( Umoia)
Knowledge of Self ( Kujichagula)
Collective work and responsibility (Ujima)
Cooperative economics (Ujima)
Purpose (Nia)
Creativity (Kuumba)
Faith (Imani)
Toni's Thoughts: Kwanzaa is very important to African American culture and history and African Americans should not be ashamed or afraid to celebrate this holiday.
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