Kwanzaa was first celebrated in 1966 in California by Dr. Maulena Karenga, chairman of black studies at Calfiornia State University--Long Beach. It is an African-American spiritual holiday designed to recognize the goodness of life, to reflect on the African-American role in history and to recommit to black liberation and improvement of life. It is celebrated from December 26 to January 1, although preparations usually begin around December 12.
Kwanzaa intertwines African traditions with American customs, based on 7 core principles called the Nguzo Saba in Swahili. These principles are: 1) Umoja or unity; 2) Kujichagulia or self determination; 3) Ujima or collective work and responsibility; 5) Nia or purpose; 6) Kuumba or creativity; and Imani or faith.
Because Kwanzaa is basically a celebration of the harvest, a central theme in African life, the 7 symbols associated with Kwanzaa are also harvest oriented. They are the mazao (fruits, vegetables and nuts), mkeka (place mat), kinara (the candleholder), muhindi (ear of corn), zawadi (gifts), kikombe cha umoja (the communal cup of unity) and mishumbaa saba (seven candles of green, black and red).
During Kwanzaa families tell and retell the stories of their ancestors and their contemporaries. Honoring one's ancestors and reclaiming one's birthright is an important aspect of this holiday. Historian Dorthy Winbush Riley explains that family legends and tales explain how African Americans "got over. We know that whatever was sown in the preceding seasons has been reaped and we accept the results. The harvest determines our direction and recommitment for the new year."
The colors of green, black and red represent important aspects of African American history and tradition. The green represents growth and advancement. The red candles indicate struggle and the blood that was shed during those struggles. The black candle stands for unity.
Other symbols of Kwanzaa include the Bendera ya Taifa, or the flag of black nationalism, which symbolizes the struggle for liberation. The harambee is a call to unity; habari gani is a Swahili term used to greet others; and kwaheri is an expression of parting. Finally, there is tambiko, or libation, which is a special honor. According to educational psychologist Saleef Kfajouffe, "Libation has 3 functions: you pour to nourish the ancestors, because they are still our responsibility. You also pour libations for the living and you pour for those yet to be born."
The 6th day of Kwanzaa is usually set aside for feasting and fun. This is the time when friends are invited to join the family for African music and food. On the last day of Kwanzaa, the theme is cultivating the belief that all may transcend and transform their difficulties with thoughtful action into a path for success. At this time, meaningful gifts, or zawadi, are traditionally exchanged to encourage growth, self determination, achievement and success.
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