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Kwanzaa is a secular festival that is celebrated by many African Americans from December 26th to January 1st (7 Nights). Kwanzaa is a celebration of cultural heritage and traditional values.
It was created by the activist Maulana Karenga and is based on African harvest festival traditions from different parts of Africa. Kwanzaa was first celebrated in 1966 and is now celebrated by millions of people. Maulana Karenga said his goal was to “Give black people an opportunity to celebrate themselves and their history”. Karenga says the name “Kwanzaa” derives from the Swahili phrae matunda ya kwanza, meaning “first fruits” (festivals that exist in Africa).
Some Kwanzaa celebratory symbols include a Kinara (candle holder for seven candles), Mishumaa Saba (seven candles), Mazao (crops), a Kikombe cha Umoja (unity cup), and Zawadi (gifts) given on the seventh day. All of these items are placed on a mkeka (place mat). Additional symbols are flags, African Books, and artwork.
Why seven candles for seven nights? Each night is based on a principle created by Maulana Karenga. Principles include: unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith.
Some interesting facts are that the fist stamp honoring Kwanzaa was issued in 1997 and the first Hallmark Kwanzaa card was sold in 1992. Ultimately, Kwanzaa is a wonderful celebration of African heritage and Black culture and is a way to connect with friends and family.
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