Kwanzaa: African Celebration

African Americans celebrate Kwanzaa to grow closer to their African Roots. It's important that we begin to adopt our own customs and belief systems. If we support each other as a community we can become stronger as a people.

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 (candleholder), then one of the seven principles is discussed. The principles, called the Nguzo Saba (seven principles in Swahili) are values of African culture which contribute to building and reinforcing community among African-Americans. Kwanzaa also has seven basic symbols which represent values and concepts reflective of African culture. An African feast, called a Karamu, is held on December 31. source: History.com

 So will you be Celebrating Christmas or Kwanzaa this year?