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Thanks to Wikipedia and to The International Kwanzaa Exchange (T.I.K.E.) where I found the background for this article. At T.I.K.E. you can find very good specifics about how to celebrate and decorate for Kwanzaa. ~KW
Kwanzaa is a week-long Pan-African festival celebrated primarily in the United States, honoring African American heritage. Kwanzaa is observed from December 26 to January 1 each year.
Kwanzaa is based on the Nguzo Saba, seven guiding principles, one for each day of the observance. Sweet Honey in the Rock has set them to music in the song Seven Principles
Umoja / Unity. Unity stresses the importance of togetherness for the family and the community, which is reflected in the African saying, “I am We,” or “I am because We are.” Umoja…[ oo-MO-ja ]
Kujichagulia / Self-Determination. Self-Determination requires that we define our common interests and make decisions that are in the best interest of our family and community. Kujichagulia…[ koo-gee-cha-goo-LEE-yah ]
Ujima / Collective Work and Responsibility. Collective Work and Responsibility reminds us of our obligation to the past, present and future, and that we have a role to play in the community, society, and world. Ujima…[ oo-GEE-mah ]
Ujamaa / Cooperative Economics. Cooperative economics emphasizes our collective economic strength and encourages us to meet common needs through mutual support. Ujamaa…[ oo-JAH-mah ]
Nia / Purpose. Purpose encourages us to look within ourselves and to set personal goals that are beneficial to the community. Nia…[ NEE-yah ]
Kuumba / Creativity. Creativity makes use of our creative energies to build and maintain a strong and vibrant community. Kuumba…[ koo-OOM-bah ]
Imani / Faith. Faith focuses on honoring the best of our traditions, draws upon the best in ourselves, and helps us strive for a higher level of life for humankind, by affirming our self-worth and confidence in our ability to succeed and triumph in righteous struggle. Imani…[ ee-MAH-nee ]
Wikipedia thoughts on
The principle of Imani:
To believe with all our heart in our people, our parents, our teachers, our leaders and the righteousness and victory of our struggle.
Filed under: Holidays, Recommended Music Tagged: | African American heritage, celebration, December 26, Faith, Kwanza, Kwanzaa
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