4h • General discussion
Happy Kwanzaa!! ( in progress)
As the year winds down and we stand at the intersection of reflection and renewal, many families across the African diaspora gather to celebrate Kwanzaa — not as a religious holiday, but as a cultural one rooted in history, intention, and collective power.
Here’s where Kwanzaa comes from — and why it still matters.
The Origin of Kwanzaa
Kwanzaa was created in 1966 by scholar and activist Dr. Maulana Karenga during the Black Freedom Movement in the United States. It was designed to reconnect people of African descent with African cultural values, traditions, and principles — especially in the aftermath of struggle, displacement, and systemic disruption.
The word Kwanzaa comes from the Swahili phrase “matunda ya kwanza,” meaning first fruits — a nod to African harvest celebrations that honored community, gratitude, and shared responsibility.
An extra “a” was added to the spelling so the word would have seven letters, representing the seven principles at the heart of the celebration.
When Kwanzaa Is Celebrated
Kwanzaa is observed December 26 through January 1.
- Each day honors one of the Nguzo Saba (Seven Principles) — values meant to guide how we live, build, and relate to one another:
- Umoja (Unity) – Togetherness in family, community, and nation
- Kujichagulia (Self-Determination) – Defining ourselves for ourselves
- Ujima (Collective Work & Responsibility) – Building and maintaining together
- Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics) – Supporting our own businesses and people
- Nia (Purpose) – Commitment to restoring our community’s greatness
- Kuumba (Creativity) – Leaving our community more beautiful than we found it
- Imani (Faith) – Belief in ourselves, our people, and our future
Each evening, a candle is lit on the kinara, conversations are held, and families reflect on how these principles show up in real life — not just during the holiday, but all year long.
Key Symbols of Kwanzaa
Kwanzaa celebrations often include meaningful symbols, each representing a core idea:
- Mkeka (Mat): The foundation — history and tradition
- Kinara (Candleholder): Our ancestral roots
- Mishumaa Saba (Seven Candles): The principles themselves
- Mazao (Crops): The rewards of collective labor
- Kikombe cha Umoja (Unity Cup): Togetherness and shared destiny
- Zawadi (Gifts): Purposeful gifts that encourage growth
Nothing is random. Everything is intentional.
Why Kwanzaa Matters
Kwanzaa isn’t about replacing other holidays. It's about remembering who we are.
It’s about pausing long enough to ask:
How are we showing up for our community?
What are we building that will outlive us?
Are we living with purpose — or just surviving another year?
Kwanzaa reminds us that reflection is power. That culture is currency. And that intentional living is an act of resistance and love.
As we move toward a new year, may these principles guide not only what you celebrate — but how you create, lead, and leave your mark.
With purpose and power,
FM. Ellis
Your story. Your voice. Your legacy.
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Happy Kwanzaa!! ( in progress)
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