Kwanzaa Celebration starts on December 26th and continues through January 1st
During this pivotal era in American history, it’s imperative that African Americans reflect on their history and culture. The seven principles of Kwanzaa empower the entire African community through remembrance, reflection, and re-commitment. The official holiday was created in 1966 by Dr. Ron “Maulana” Karenga, Professor and Chair of the Department of Africana Studies at California State University. The name Kwanzaa is derived from the phrase “matunda ya kwanza” which means “first fruits” in Swahili. Each family celebrates Kwanzaa in its own way, but celebrations often include songs and dances, African drums, storytelling, poetry reading, and a large traditional meal. On each of the seven nights, the family gathers and a child lights one of the candles on the Kinara (candle-holder), then one of the seven principles is discussed.
The Nguzo Saba (The Seven Principles):
The principles of Kwanzaa are reflected upon each day for seven days, starting from the 26th of December until New Year’s Day. Today is the third day of Kwanzaa , so let us reflect on today’s principle by saying “habari gani”, the Kwanzaa phrase asked each day meaning ‘what’s the news?’. Today’s answer is Ujima pronounced (OO-GEE-MAH). Collective Work and Responsibility: To build and maintain our community together, make our brother’s and sister’s problems our problems, and to solve them together.
Ujima reminds us of our obligation to the past, present, and future, and that we have a role to play in the community, society, and world.
-Seven Candles for Kwanzaa by Andrea Davis Pinkney
African Americans strive to sustain themselves on a daily basis, but due to a lack of resources being past down for previous generations, and freedom of knowing who they are; things as simple as food, clothing, and shelter have become almost elusive to many in the African American community. The lack of knowledge of their history, birthright, and a distorted view of the slavery of their people; has turned entire generations to alcohol, drugs, and deviant sexual behavior. It’s a psychology issue; what some psychologists call Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome. Lack of exercise or proper eating habits makes it a physical issue, with heart disease and diabetes causing death to young black males at an alarming rate. There is a collective work that must occur to help educate the African American community of their culture, as well as the collective responsibility of this generation for generations to come.
An authentic example of a traditional Kwanzaa celebration can be seen in the documentary film, ‘The Black Candle’ by M.K. Asante, Jr., narrated by the late great Maya Angelou.
This holiday season the energy is different, showing how serious the times are. With the passing of Christmas and the coming of 2015 just days away, let us reflect on the positive aspects of our culture as a collective; together not apart.
-Infinite Wiz (@InfiniteWiz)
