Kwanzaa is a time of reaffirming Atfican-American people, their ancestors and culture. Founded by Dr. Maulana Karenga in 1966 its based on Nguzo Saba (seven principles) and celebrated from Dec 26th to Jan 1st.

The seven principles:
1 – Umoja (Unity),

2 – Kujichagulia (Self-determination),

3 – Ujima (Collective work and responsibility),

4 – Ujamaa (Cooperative economics),

5 – Nia (Purpose),

6 – Kuumba (Creativity) and

7 – Imani (Faith).

7 days for 7 principles.

Items Required: Kinara (candle holder, pref 7 holder), mkeka (mat, pref straw mat), mazao (crops, fruit and veg), Vibunzi/Muhindi (ears of corn reppin’ number of children), kikombe cha umoja (communal unity cup), mishumaa saba (seven candles, 1 black, 3 red, 3 green) and zawadi (enriching gifts). When decorating the room all these items have to dominate the room and give it an African motif. Karamu (The Kwanzaa Feast)

Procedure: Kukaribisha (welcoming), Kuumba (remembering, reflections, cultural expression), kuchuguza tena na kutoa ahadi tena (reassessment and recommitment), kushangilla (rejoicing), kikombe cha umoja (unity cup), kutoa majina (calling names of family ancestors and Black heroes), ngoma (drums) and karamu (CHOW TIME!!).Kwanzaa is kinda like an occasion that it gives the folks an opportunity to reflect they African past and American present. There’s also this thing they do with the water in the communal cup… first poured in the direction of the 4 winds (N, S, E, W), then its passed on to family and guests who either take a swig or gesture the swig.

The Liberation Statement: For the motherland cradle of civilization. For the ancestors and their indomitable spirit. For the elders from whom we can learn much. For our youth who represent the promise for tomorrow. For our people the original people. For our struggle and in remembrance of those who have struggles on our behalf. For Umoja and principle of unity which should guide us in all that we do. For the creator who provides all things great and small. Note: Its originally spelt Kwanza but the Doc added the extra ‘a’ to distinguish the celebration from the Motherland spelling.