How to Honor Ancestors During Kwanzaa

Kwanzaa, a holiday developed by a professor at California State University in 1966, takes place each year from December 26 to January 1. Its purposes include honoring ancestors, celebrating the values of African traditions and helping pave the way to a better future for people of African descent around the world. There are seven principles (unity, self-determination, responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith) to practice during the seven days of Kwanzaa, each of which works in conjunction with the honor of ancestors that hearkens back to ancient African traditions.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Telephone and contact information for parents and former mentors
• Books handed down from past generations

1. Contact your parents (if living) and any former or current mentors in your life. Let them know in some special way (a gift, letter or even phone call) that you appreciate their leadership and honor them and the influence that they had in your life.
2. Take a day to celebrate the sacrifices and strength that it took your ancestors to continue the struggle that Kwanzaa represents. They are true heroes and the reason why people of African descent can enjoy this wonderful cultural celebration. Some cities hold a parade in honor of all their ancestors during the Kwanzaa season.
3. Visit the African Burial Ground in Lower Manhattan, New York City. The burial ground holds the remains of over 400 17th- and 18th-century Africans.
4. Return the favor of all your ancestors' hard work by performing a public service. Utilize your strength and courage to make a positive change in your community that will last and benefit the next generation. Begin a season of positive growth by personally investing in your cultural community.
5. Teach your children about their ancestors. Read stories from books that have been handed down from generation to generation and that reflect the history of your culture. Answer any questions that might arise and do your best to show a sincere gratitude for the foundation that your ancestors laid.

Tips & Warnings

• Kwanzaa means "first fruits" in Swahili.
• Celebrations similar to Kwanzaa have been recorded as far back in history as ancient Egypt and Nubia.
• Kwanzaa draws on the cultures of various African peoples. This enables it to be a rich and deepening celebration.
• Anyone, regardless of cultural descent, who is in agreement with the seven principles of Kwanzaa can feel free to celebrate it.