How to Explain the Meaning of Kwanzaa
When you are trying to explain the meaning of Kwanzaa, be careful not to describe the African tradition as a religious or political celebration. When it was created, it was not meant to replace Christmas or any other religious holiday. It was meant as a way to celebrate the families, culture and community of those of African descent in America and around the world.
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Instructions
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Explain that the holiday was originally created in 1966 by a professor at California State University named Dr. Maulana Karenga. He created the celebration to reaffirm the vision to restore African culture, families and communities together in America and eventually around the world.
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Review the basic seven principles of Kwanzaa, or the Nguzo Saba; Umoja (unity), Kujichagulia (self-determination), Ujima (collective work and responsibility), Ujamaa (cooperative economics), Nia (purpose), Kuumba (creativity) and Imani (faith). These seven principles are each designated one day of celebration during the seven days of the Kwanzaa season.
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3
Show the seven symbols of Kwanzaa; Mazeo (fruits, nuts and vegetables), Mkeka (placemat), Vibunzi (ear of corn), Mishumaa Saba (the seven candles), Kinara (the candleholder), Kikombe Cha Umoja (the unity cup) and Zawadi (gifts of enrichment). These seven symbols all have a special place during specific Kwanzaa ceremonies.
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Instruct all family members, especially the younger ones, that the meaning of Kwanzaa is tied to the regular seasonal celebration of the holiday. It is an attempt to gather families and communities together to reconnect and evaluate your lives in relation to one another and in relation to the legacy you will leave for future generations. It is a time to appreciate the culture that you have known your entire lives and a time to explain your heritage to your children.
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Celebrate not only in your own family or community, but also with the entire world. Kwanzaa brings together people of African descent from all countries, all religions, all traditions, all ages and all generations.
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Explain that Kwanzaa offers a time for people to search their souls and answer the deep questions of life. On the seventh day of Kwanzaa, which is devoted to the idea of faith (Imani), you should take time to reflect on the three Kawaida questions: Who am I?, Am I really who I say I am? and Am I all that I ought to be?
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Tips & Warnings
The dates of Kwanzaa are from December 26 to January 1 every year.
