We remember a time when knowledge of self and embracing culture were at the forefront. In the 70s, James Brown proudly proclaimed, "Say it Loud—I'm Black and I'm Proud." In the late 80s, hip-hop music was conscious, and there was a powerful movement of being Black and proud. Dashikis, kufis, and beads became symbols of pride, and we brought back an essence that echoed the 1960s. One of the most beautiful celebrations we had during this time was Kwanzaa, which filled the Black community with energy, culture, and purpose.
Dr. Maulana Karenga, an African American activist and professor, introduced Kwanzaa in 1966. The name comes from the Swahili phrase matunda ya kwanza, meaning "first fruits." This holiday, celebrated from December 26 to January 1, is rooted in African traditions of harvest and gratitude, but it also serves as a guide for self-determination, community, and cultural pride.
The seven principles of Kwanzaa—Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self-Determination), Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility), Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), Kuumba (Creativity), and Imani (Faith)—are its foundation, offering a roadmap for empowerment and upliftment.
Kwanzaa is more than a holiday; it is a practice that emphasizes community improvement. Each principle provides an opportunity to reflect and act, and together they form a philosophy that mirrors many of the teachings of Christ. For instance, Umoja, the principle of unity, calls for togetherness within families and communities. This aligns closely with Psalm 133:1, which says, "How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity." Similarly, Kujichagulia, which stands for self-determination, echoes the biblical message of empowerment in 2 Timothy 1:7: "For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control."
Ujima—collective work and responsibility—reminds us to work together and care for one another. Galatians 6:2 teaches, "Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ." Ujamaa, which focuses on cooperative economics, finds resonance in Psalm 128:2: "You shall eat the fruit of the labor of your hands; you shall be blessed, and it shall be well with you." These principles guide us to build and sustain our communities through mutual support and shared prosperity.
Nia, the principle of purpose, challenges us to align our actions with a greater mission. Proverbs 19:21 states, "Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails." Kuumba, creativity, calls us to leave our communities better than we found them, reflecting Genesis 1:27, which reminds us that we are made in the image of a creative God. Finally, Imani, faith, ties it all together with the assurance found in Hebrews 11:1: "Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see."
Unlike holidays that are heavily commercialized, Kwanzaa is free from materialistic ties. The gifts exchanged are cultural and symbolic, often handmade, and carry deeper significance because they come from the heart. The focus is on the work and effort behind the gifts, rather than their monetary value. Kwanzaa also stands apart as a holiday born out of the African American experience, untouched by colonization or Western influence. It is a celebration that gives African Americans something to call their own, fostering pride and connection to our heritage.
Kwanzaa offers an opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions about culture and history with our families. It creates a tradition that rivals any other, allowing us to establish norms in our households that reflect our values and identity. In a society where African Americans were historically stripped of their names, cultures, and religions, Kwanzaa provides a way to reclaim and celebrate our roots.
It is a gift from Dr. Karenga to remind us of who we are and where we come from, and it gives us a foundation to build upon for the betterment of our communities.
As we celebrate other holidays and traditions, let us also embrace Kwanzaa with the same enthusiasm and pride. It is a celebration that honors our heritage and inspires us to live out its principles not just during the holiday season, but throughout the year. By practicing Umoja, Kujichagulia, Ujima, Ujamaa, Nia, Kuumba, and Imani, we can create stronger families, thriving communities, and a legacy of cultural pride for future generations.
Let this be the year we fully embrace the beauty and power of Kwanzaa. Let us honor its principles, not as a fleeting celebration, but as a way of life. In doing so, we honor our ancestors, uplift our present, and inspire our future. Together, let us use this gift to transform our communities and carry forward the vision of unity, purpose, and faith that Kwanzaa represents.
コメント