Celebrating Kwanzaa 2022! Day 1: Umoja
Heri za Kwanzaa!! (Happy Kwanzaa!!)
Today is December 26th which is the first day of Kwanzaa!!! This holiday was created by activist Dr. Maulana Karenga in 1966. Kwanzaa is a week-long celebration in honor of the African heritage that has been valued, signified, and sustained within the African American community. The celebration consists of a variety of dances, songs, stories and traditions that represent Pan-Africanism.
There are 7 principles of Kwanzaa which will be discussed on each day!
Day 1:
The first principle is Umoja which means “unity” in Swahili. Umoja represents the collectivist culture within Black communities across the country.
Today, we will light the Black candle which is located on the center of the Kinara (the candle holder) which marks the start of Kwanzaa.
On the first day of Kwanzaa, and throughout the week we would like to focus on harmony within the African American community and reflect on our shared values and Pan-African cultural experiences. We would also like to celebrate our ancestors, the ones who laid a foundation for us to excel and continue to grow as one.
So,
Harambee !
Harambee !
Harambee!
Harambee!
Harambee!
Harambee!
Harambee!
Let’s pull together as one during Kwanzaa.
See you tomorrow !
Learn More about the first principal of Kwanzaa: Umoja (Unity) with Dr. Francine:
“Coming together is a beginning, staying together is progress, and working together is success”
