What does each principle of Kwanzaa mean?
The principles include: Umoja (Unity): maintaining unity as a family, community, and race of people. Kujichagulia (Self-Determination): defining, naming, creating, and speaking for ourselves. Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility): building and maintaining our community—solving problems together.
How do you celebrate Kwanzaa day 7?
On the 7th and last day of Kwanzaa, we light the third green candle to the right of the black candle. And this candle represents the principle of Imani (faith). On this day, we pledge to believe with all our heart in our people, our parents, our teachers, our leaders, and the righteousness and victory of our struggle.
What do you eat on Kwanzaa?
Main dishes are always the highlight of dinner. For your Kwanzaa meal, try African creole, Cajun catfish, jerk chicken, or Groundnut stew, a tasty dish from West Africa. For your side we’ve got many traditional Kwanzaa recipes, including Jollof rice, collard greens, Kwanzaa slaw, grits, beans and rice, and okra.
Why are the seven principles of Kwanzaa important?
It celebrates seven values in African culture: unity, self-determination, collective responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith. Kwanzaa began in 1966 when it was created by Dr. Maulana Karenga, a Black power activist and professor of Africana studies.
Who created the 7 principles of Kwanzaa?
Dr. Maulana Karenga
It celebrates seven values in African culture: unity, self-determination, collective responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith. Kwanzaa began in 1966 when it was created by Dr. Maulana Karenga, a Black power activist and professor of Africana studies.
What gifts are given during Kwanzaa?
Karenga states that Kwanzaa gifts should include two items: a book and a heritage symbol, and that those gifts should never serve as a substitution for love, attention, and involvement with a child. Zawadi can also be given to family members. The sixth principle is Kuumba, meaning creativity.
What do Kwanzaa people drink?
If you celebrate Kwanzaa, a stinger is the cocktail for you. Invented in the early 1900s by African-American Tom Bullock, it’s a great way to pay tribute to the unity of African-American culture in the states. The recipe is simple – blend a two to one ratio of brandy and creme de menthe, shake well, and serve over ice.
What religion practices Kwanzaa?
“Thus, Africans of all faiths can and do celebrate Kwanzaa, i.e. Muslims, Christians, Black Hebrews, Jews, Buddhists, Baha’i and Hindus, as well as those who follow the ancient traditions of Maat, Yoruba, Ashanti, Dogon, etc.” According to Karenga, non-Black people can also enjoy Kwanzaa, just as non-Mexicans …
What do you say during Kwanzaa?
Habari Gani!
General Kwanzaa Wishes “Habari Gani! Wishing you a blessed Kwanzaa.” “Heri za Kwanzaa!” (Swahili for “Happy Kwanzaa!”) “Sending warm wishes for a joyful Kwanzaa!”