Kwanzaa, a vibrant seven-day celebration deeply rooted in African American culture, takes place annually from December 26th to January 1st. This unique holiday, derived from the Swahili phrase matunda ya kwanza, meaning “first fruits,” was established in 1966 and serves as a powerful affirmation of African heritage and values.
Don Harrell, an adjunct professor of Africana studies at UCF and an expert in the field, explains the origins of this significant celebration. Kwanzaa emerged from the efforts of Maulana Karenga, then known as Ron Everett, and other community leaders in Los Angeles following the Watts Riots of 1965. Initially conceived as a Black nationalist movement, Kwanzaa evolved into a celebration of cultural nationalism, emphasizing a connection to African heritage for inspiration and purpose.
Harrell, who witnessed the early Kwanzaa celebrations as a graduate student at UCLA and program director at a community center in South Central Los Angeles, notes its remarkable growth. “It’s amazing to have seen Kwanzaa grow from being celebrated by a limited number of people to it becoming almost popular culture at this point,” he reflects. As founder of Orisirisi African Folklore, he has actively participated in Kwanzaa celebrations, offering valuable insights into this cultural observance.
The Origins of Kwanzaa: A Celebration Rooted in History
Understanding What Is Kwanzaa requires delving into its historical context. Born from the aftermath of the Watts Riots, a period of social upheaval and a quest for identity, Kwanzaa was intended to be a unifying cultural force within the African American community. It was a response to the historical and ongoing challenges faced by Black Americans, including the legacy of slavery and persistent racial inequalities.
Professor Harrell emphasizes that Kwanzaa is fundamentally a cultural celebration, distinct from religious holidays. It does not compete with or replace faith-based observances but rather fills a crucial void by providing a space for African Americans to connect with their heritage and affirm their identity. Kwanzaa is “a cultural celebration of Blackness that is about knowing self, understanding self, reinforcing self and understanding the beauty that lies within.” It is a celebration deeply “based on African principles and ideals and the first fruits or harvest celebrations traditionally observed in many parts of Africa. So, as such, it’s a reconnection with the African past to help forge an African American future.”
In the face of historical attempts to suppress African culture and identity, Kwanzaa emerged as a powerful act of self-determination. It marked a turning point, fostering a sense of pride and collective identity among African Americans, empowering them to embrace their heritage and challenge the imposed narrative of “second-class” citizenship. Kwanzaa became instrumental in this “metamorphosis,” shifting the mindset towards self-affirmation and cultural pride.
The Seven Principles of Kwanzaa: Nguzo Saba
At the heart of what is Kwanzaa are the seven principles, known as the Nguzo Saba. Each day of Kwanzaa is dedicated to one of these principles, guiding reflection and discussion within families and communities. The daily greeting during Kwanzaa, “Habari Gani?“, meaning “What’s the news?”, is answered with the principle of the day, prompting deeper engagement with its meaning. These principles, rooted in African cultural traditions, are:
Umoja (Unity)
The first principle, Umoja, emphasizes unity within the family, community, and nation. It calls for striving for and maintaining togetherness, recognizing the strength and resilience found in collective solidarity. Unity is seen as the foundation for progress and overcoming challenges.
Kujichagulia (Self-determination)
Kujichagulia, the second principle, focuses on self-determination. It underscores the importance of defining ourselves, naming ourselves, and speaking for ourselves, rather than being defined by others. This principle promotes agency and the right to self-expression and self-governance.
Ujimaa (Collective Work and Responsibility)
The third principle, Ujimaa, highlights collective work and responsibility. It calls upon individuals to build and maintain their community together, recognizing that the problems of one are the problems of all. Ujimaa encourages collaborative problem-solving and mutual support within the community.
Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics)
Ujamaa, the fourth principle, centers on cooperative economics. It advocates for building and maintaining community-owned businesses, shops, and enterprises, working together for collective economic empowerment and benefit. Ujamaa promotes self-reliance and economic cooperation within the community.
Nia (Purpose)
The fifth principle, Nia, translates to purpose. It emphasizes the collective vocation of building and developing the community to restore it to its traditional greatness. Nia focuses on setting collective goals that benefit the community and contribute to its long-term prosperity and cultural richness.
Kuumba (Creativity)
Kuumba, the sixth principle, celebrates creativity. It encourages individuals to always do as much as they can, in the best way they can, to leave their community more beneficial and beautiful than they inherited it. Kuumba promotes innovation, artistic expression, and improvement for the betterment of the community.
Imani (Faith)
The seventh and final principle, Imani, signifies faith. It calls for belief in and commitment to all that is of value to the family, community, people, and culture. Imani emphasizes trust in oneself, one’s community, and the power of collective action and shared values.
During Kwanzaa celebrations, these principles come alive through discussions, reflections, and cultural expressions like African drumming, dance, fashion, and cuisine, creating a vibrant and immersive experience.
The Seven Symbols of Kwanzaa: Visual Representations of Values
Beyond the principles, what is Kwanzaa is also expressed through seven core symbols, each carrying significant meaning and contributing to the rich tapestry of the celebration. These symbols are intentionally chosen to represent key aspects of African heritage and the values of Kwanzaa:
Mazao (Crops)
Mazao, representing crops (fruits, nuts, and vegetables), symbolizes the harvest and the foundations of Kwanzaa in African harvest festivals. It represents the rewards of collective work, planning, and sharing, embodying joy, unity, and thanksgiving.
Mkeka (Mat)
The Mkeka, a straw mat, serves as the foundation upon which all other symbols are placed. It represents tradition and history, the base upon which the present and future are built. The Mkeka symbolizes the ancestral foundation of African American culture.
Muhindi (Corn) or Vibunzi (Ear of Corn)
Muhindi, or ears of corn (with a single ear called Vibunzi), represents fertility and children, the future generation. The number of corn ears displayed can represent the number of children in the family, symbolizing the continuation of life and hope for the future.
Mishumaa Saba (Seven Candles)
The Mishumaa Saba, the seven candles, are central to the Kwanzaa ceremony. One candle is lit each day of Kwanzaa while discussing the corresponding principle. These candles symbolically recreate the sun’s power and provide light, representing guidance and illumination.
Kinara (Candle Holder)
The Kinara, or candle holder, holds the seven candles and represents the original stalk or ancestry from which African Americans originated – the ancestors. It is placed at the center of the Kwanzaa setting, signifying the importance of heritage and lineage.
Kikombe Cha Umoja (Unity Cup)
The Kikombe Cha Umoja, or Unity Cup, is used to perform a libation ritual on the sixth day of Kwanzaa, during the Karamu (feast). This ritual, an African tradition, honors ancestors and symbolizes unity and remembrance.
Zawadi (Gifts)
Zawadi, or gifts, are traditionally given on the seventh day of Kwanzaa. These gifts are meant to be educational, encouraging growth, self-determination, achievement, and success in children and adults alike. They symbolize the fruits of labor and the promise of the future.
The Colors of Kwanzaa: Symbolism in Red, Black, and Green
The colors of Kwanzaa – red, black, and green – are deeply symbolic and carry historical significance within the Black liberation movement. These colors are reflected in the Mishumaa Saba (seven candles):
- Black: Representing Umoja (Unity), the black candle is lit on the first day of Kwanzaa. Black symbolizes the people, representing the unity of the African diaspora.
- Red: Three red candles represent Kujichagulia (Self-determination), Ujimaa (Collective Responsibility), and Kuumba (Creativity). Red symbolizes the struggle and the blood shed for liberation and justice.
- Green: Three green candles represent Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), and Imani (Faith). Green symbolizes the Earth, hope for the future, and the abundance of new possibilities and growth.
The lighting of the candles follows a specific order, starting with the black candle in the center, followed by red and green candles on alternating sides each night. This ritualistic lighting reinforces the principles and symbolism of the colors.
Kwanzaa Today: Inclusivity and Broader Meaning
While rooted in African American culture, what is Kwanzaa today transcends ethnic boundaries. Professor Harrell emphasizes that participation in Kwanzaa is open to everyone. “Yes! You don’t have to be an African American to be a part of a Kwanzaa celebration or to enjoy, benefit, or grow because of participating.” Kwanzaa’s principles of unity, self-determination, collective responsibility, and creativity are universal values that resonate across diverse communities.
Kwanzaa offers a valuable opportunity for people of all backgrounds to learn about African American culture, reflect on shared human values, and engage in meaningful dialogue about community building and cultural appreciation. It is a celebration that promotes inclusivity and understanding in an increasingly diverse world.
Conclusion
Kwanzaa stands as a powerful and enduring cultural celebration. Understanding what is Kwanzaa means recognizing its historical origins, embracing its seven guiding principles (Nguzo Saba), and appreciating the rich symbolism embedded in its traditions. More than just a holiday, Kwanzaa is a reaffirmation of African heritage, a celebration of community, and an invitation to reflect on universal values that can guide us towards a more just and equitable future.
