kwanzaa

HABARI GANI?
(What's the news?)

KWANZAA
December 26 - January 1

KWANZAA, which means "first fruits of the harvest," is one of our newest holidays. Founded in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karengo, it is an African American holiday based on seven guiding principles that focus on traditional African values of family, community responsibility, commerce, and self-improvement.

Central in the celebration of Kwanzaa is the Kinara or candle holder. The colors of Kwanzaa are black, green and red. The candles placed in the Kinara are these same colors, three red candles, one black candle and three green candles. There is one candle for each of the seven days of Kwanzaa. There is a guidindg principle for each of the seven days.

Unity means togetherness for the family as well as the community. There is an African says, "I am We," or "I am because We are," signifying this unity.

Self-determination tasks us with making our decisions for the best interest of our family and our community. The decisions we make reflect on the entire community.

Collective Work and Responsibility reminds us that we are members of a larger community and that we have an obligation, not only to the present and future, but to our past.

Cooperative economics encourages mutual support from the entire community to meet the community needs. Working together strengthens the community.

Purpose involves setting personal goals for ourselves and for the betterment of the community. We must look deep within ourselves to commit to these goals.

Creativity makes us use ourown energies, talents and intellect to build and maintain our community and to improve our families.

Faith helps us honor our tradtions and bring out the best in ourselves. It helps us strive for a better life for our families, our community and for the family of man.

Other important items for Kwanzaa are the Mkeka, a mat made of straw; Mazao, fruits and vegetables; Vibunzi, one ear of corn for each child in the family; Kikombe cha umoja, a community drinking cup; Mishumaa saba, the seven candles; and Zawadi, gifts.

HARAMBEE!
(Let's pull together!)

Kwanzm Yenu Iwe Na Heri!
"May your Kwanzaa be happy!"

For more information and stories about Kwanzaa, go to:
http://www.night.net

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