Kwanzaa Begins today

Marie5656

Marie5656

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Batavia, NY
Today marks the beginning of Kwanzaa. This year marks the 50th year it has been observed, so I thought I would do my research, and found out some interesting facts. Enjoy the lesson
The year 2016 will see the 50th annual Kwanzaa, the African American holiday celebrated from December 26 to January 1. It is estimated that some 18 million African Americans take part in Kwanzaa.
Kwanzaa is not a religious holiday, nor is it meant to replace Christmas. It was created by Dr. Maulana "Ron" Karenga, a professor of Black Studies, in 1966. At this time of great social change for African Americans, Karenga sought to design a celebration that would honor the values of ancient African cultures and inspire African Americans who were working for progress.
Kwanzaa is based on the year-end harvest festivals that have taken place throughout Africa for thousands of years. The name comes from the Swahili phrase "matunda ya kwanza," which means "first fruits of the harvest." Karenga chose a phrase from Swahili because the language is used by various peoples throughout Africa.
The seven principles of Kwanzaa are as follows:
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[h=3]The Principles of Kwanzaa[/h]umoja (oo-MOH-ja)
Meaning: unity
Action: building a community that holds together
kujichagulia (koo-jee-cha-goo-LEE-yah)
Meaning: self-determination
Action: speaking for yourself and making choices that benefit the community
ujima (oo-JEE-mah)
Meaning: collective work and responsibility
Action: helping others within the community
ujamaa (oo-JAH-ma)
Meaning: cooperative economics
Action: supporting businesses that care about the community
nia (nee-AH)
Meaning: a sense of purpose
Action: setting goals that benefit the community
kuumba (koo-OOM-bah)
Meaning: creativity
Action: making the community better and more beautiful
imani (ee-MAH-nee)
Meaning: faith
Action: believing that a better world can be created for communities now and in the future
 
Manatee said:
A black lady that I worked with some years ago said it was a "manufactured holiday". I didn't comment.
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That was clearly pointed out when it was stated it was created. And I quote from the OP original post "Kwanzaa is not a religious holiday, nor is it meant to replace Christmas. It was created by Dr. Maulana "Ron" Karenga, a professor of Black Studies, in 1966.


But, thanks for the FYI nothing less expected.
 
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My husband and I attended many Kwanzaa celebrations over the years, some of which he participated in. Each year the celebrations took place at a different venue each night. There's always good entertainment and good food. I was told my husband was honored at one of the celebrations that took place after he passed but I was not able to attend. Kwanzaa celebrations are colorful and the spirit is one of togetherness (Ujima). My son deejayed at one of the celebrations and played this song. Teddy runs down the Kwanzaa principles; I loved the happy vibe and play it often.

@Pecos @Pinky @Paco Dennis @palides2021
 
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