Habari Gani: Celebrating Kwanzaa 2021

Let’s talk Kwanzaa.

Originally established in 1966, Kwanzaa is a seven-day African American celebration of community, family, and culture.

Beginning on December 26th, the first #Kwanzaa principle is Umoja, which means “unity.”

We celebrate the oneness with our families and communities embodied in the African proverb, “I am because we are.”

The second principle of Kwanzaa is Kujichagulia, which means “self-determination.”

We’re inspired to define and speak for ourselves while making choices for the good of the community.

As we celebrate on the second day, remember to speak one positive affirmation about yourself + share one with a friend, family member or loved one.

Kwanzaa’s third principle is Ujima, which means or “collective work and responsibility.”

This is when we recognize that we are all part of a bigger community and have the honor and responsibility of coming together to achieve larger goals and shape our collective future.

On the fourth day of Kwanzaa, we celebrate Ujamaa, which means “cooperative economics.”

For Ujamaa, lean into your communities, shop small, shop local and build a system where we all can profit together.

For Kwanzaa’s fifth principle we celebrate Nia, which means “purpose.”

Stepping into one’s purpose can feel overwhelming and heavy when done alone, but with Nia in mind, we concentrate on carrying out the purpose of strengthening our communities and restoring our people.

Kwanzaa’s sixth principle is Kuumba, which means “creativity.”

Take the opportunity to create something that will leave an impact on our family, friends + community.

For the last principle of Kwanzaa, we celebrate Imani, which means “faith.”

As we honor the final principle, we must believe with all our heart in our people, our parents, our teachers, our leaders, and the righteousness and victory of our struggle.