Kwanzaa is a seven-day celebration from December 26 to January 1. It was started 1966 by Maulana Karenga, a professor of Africana studies at California State.
The word kwanzaa is an adaptation of the Swahili word kwanza, meaning first. The holiday derives from the First Fruits celebrations of southern Africa, where the first fruits of the harvest were given to God in thanks for abundance.Families and other participants light red, black and green candles. One candle is lit each day of the celebration and the principle of the day is discussed.
One of the seven principles of Kwanzaa is celebrated on each of the seven days:
- unity (umoja),
- determination (kujichagulia),
- collective responsibility (ujima),
- cooperative economics (ujamaa),
- purpose (nia),
- creativity (kuumba),
- faith (imani).
- mazeo – fruit vegetables or nuts
- Mkeka – the mat which represents African foundation and traditions
- Kinara- the candle holder which represents African ancestors and diaspora
- Mishumaa- the seven candles which are red back and green and represent the people, the land, and the struggle
- Muhindi- corn or maize represents African children and the promise of their future
- Kikombe cha Umoja- the Unity Cup symbolizes unity of family and community
- Zawadi – the gifts given to educate the children and enhance their knowledge about their heritage such as books and educational toys.
My family celebrates principles of Kwanzaa and self-determination (kujichagulia) by remembering black owned businesses.
There is more information in the links below.100+ Black owned businesses https://www.nbcnews.com/select/shopping/black-owned-business-guide-ncna1258948
Forbes: Why It’s Crucial To Support Black-Owned Businesses On Both Corporate, Consumer Levels
-KB