Kwanzaa (First Day) in the United States

History and Traditions

Kwanzaa is a week-long African American and Pan-African holiday celebrated from December 26th to January 1st. It was created in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga, a professor of Africana Studies, as a way to honor African heritage and culture.

The holiday is based on African harvest festival traditions from various parts of Africa, including West and Southeast Africa. Kwanzaa is guided by seven principles known as the Nguzo Saba, one for each day of the celebration:

1. Umoja (Unity)
2. Kujichagulia (Self-Determination)
3. Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility)
4. Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics)
5. Nia (Purpose)
6. Kuumba (Creativity)
7. Imani (Faith)

First Day: Umoja

On the first day of Kwanzaa, the focus is on Umoja, which means unity in Swahili.

• Families gather together to light the black candle placed in the center of the Kinara, a candle holder with seven branches.
• The black candle represents people of African descent.
• Participants discuss the principle of Umoja and how they can strive to maintain unity in their family, community, nation, and race.
• Often, an elder will lead the ceremony which includes drinking from a unity cup known as the Kikombe cha Umoja.

Activities

People celebrate through activities such as:

• Drumming and musical performances.
• Readings of African literature or stories that emphasize unity.
• Reflecting on their lives and communities in relation to the principle of Umoja.
• Enjoying meals that feature traditional African dishes or those inspired by African cuisine.

Decorations typically include items such as African cloths like kente or mudcloth, art pieces that represent African cultures, fruits that symbolize harvests, and books on African history.

Throughout Kwanzaa's seven days, families also exchange gifts which are usually educational or cultural items intended to enrich growth and encourage heritage appreciation.