Kwanzaa is a beautiful holiday to celebrate African origins, to remember from whence we came, to never forget those who came before us, and to teach the lessons of the past to the children of our future. Created by Dr. Maulana Karenga in 1966 to honor African heritage of the African American culture, Kwanzaa begins on December 26 th and lasts seven days. African traditions are honored in clothing, playing drums, and eating food with hands. Homes are decorated using the meaningful colors red, black and green—red is for the struggles to gain freedom; black is the color of the people; and green symbolizes the fertile lands of Africa. Decorations include African artwork, paintings, sculptures and colorful fabrics, as well as the seven symbols:
A mat that symbolizes building a foundation: fruits and vegetables, symbolic of nourishment; ears of corn (usually one for each child); the kinara to hold the seven candles (three red, three green, one black in the center); the unity cup; and gifts (books, artwork, teaching materials, or even pledges of support).
I do not have space to describe all seven principles, so I will leave you with day seven—the final day of Kwanzaa—Imani which means FAITH. This day revolves around the discussion of the belief the world can be a better place. The candles are lit in the designated order, the unity cup is shared as the principle is shared. The candles are then extinguished until next year and Kwanzaa ends with a renewed belief and commitment to each other and to the community.
