Kwanzaa
Kayli Williams
What religion celebrates Kwanzaa?
The African American culture
When is it?
In 2013 Kwanzaa started on Thursday, December 26 th and ended on Wednesday, January 1 st .
Where does the word 'Kwanzaa' come from?
It comes from the phrase matunda ya kwanza, which means 'first fruits.
Kwanzaa is a weeklong celebration held in the US and also celebrated in the western African. The celebration honors African heritage in African American culture, and is observed from December 26 to January 1 st , in a coming together feast and gift giving. Kwanzaa has seven core principles. It was created by Maulana Karenga, and was first celebrated in 1966-1967.
The seven principles of Kwanza [Nguzo Saba] are:
Unity [Umoja]
Self- determination [Kujichagulia]
Collective work and Responsibility [ugima]
Cooperative Economics [Ujamaa]
Purpose [Nia]
Creativity [Kuumba]
Faith [Imani]
During Kwanzaa people decorate their houses and wear special holiday robes. The things people use to celebrate include a decorative mat, a kinara, gifts, and a green black and red flag.
The kinara is a holster with seven candles they light every night of kwanza. Fresh fruit is used to represent African ideals. A special cup is used that everyone drinks from to share in the special celebration. Some of the special clothing includes a colorful kente cloth worn by men. And kaftans worn by women.
Some Kwanza festivals include drumming, and music of many kinds. During these ceremonies people greet each other by saying “Joyous Kwanzaa”. They talk about history; they say the pledge and finally a feast or karamu. Another greeting is “Habari Gani” which is Swahili for “what's the news”.
In conclusion Kwanzaa has been a part of African American history and continues to be celebrated to this day.
Kwanzaa is an African American holiday. It strengthens and celebrates family, culture, and community. It lasts seven days. Kwanzaa begins December 26 th .
On each day of Kwanzaa, a principal is celebrated.
Days of Month |
Principle |
Swahili Translation |
26 th |
Unity |
Umoja |
27 th |
Self Determination |
Kujichagulia |
28 th |
Collective work + Responsibility |
Ujima |
29 th |
Cooperative Economics |
Ujamaa |
30 th |
Purpose |
Nia |
31 st |
Creativity |
Kumbaa |
January 1 st |
Faith |
Imani |
Kwanzaa was created by Maulana Kawana. It was first celebrated in 1966-67. Kwanzaa is celebrated with 7 candles. Those are some interesting facts about the African American holiday Kwanzaa. |
