Kwanzaa is an African-American holiday about the festival of the first harvest of the crops. It begins on December 26, and lasts for seven days. The name Kwanzaa, sometimes spelled Kwanza, comes from a phrase which means "first fruits" in Swahili, an East African language. It was created by Dr. Maulana Karenga and first celebrated in 1966 - 1967. Each day is focused on Nguzo Saba, or the seven principles.
Nguzo Saba (Social and Spiritual Principles)
1.
UMOJA (UNITY) (oo-MOE-jah)
2.
KUJICHAGULIA (SELF DETERMINATION) (koo-jee-cha-goo-LEE-ah)
3.
UJIMA (COLLECTIVE WORK AND RESPONSIBILITY) (oo-JEE-mah)
4.
UJAMAA (COOPERATIVE ECONOMICS) (oo-JAH-mah)
5.
NIA (PURPOSE) (nee-AH)
6.
KUUMBA (CREATIVITY) (koo-OOM-bah)
7.
IMANI (FAITH) (ee-MAH-nee)
Happy Kwanzaa everyone!
