Kwanzaa Info.

     Maulana Karenga, the founder of Kwanzaa, thought that Kwanzaa should be a national holiday in 1966. Kwanzaa is celebrated for one full week for honoring African American heritage. On those seven days, there are activities such as candle lighting, and pouring of libations, and culminating in a feast and gift giving.



The 7 principles of Kwanzaa

Theme 1 

Umoja (oo-MO-jah) 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."  

Theme 2 

Kujichagulia (koo-gee-cha-goo-LEE-yah) Self-Determination requires that we define our common interests and 

make decisions that are in the best interest of our family and community.  

Theme 3 

Ujima (oo-GEE-mah) 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.  

Theme 4 

Ujamaa (oo-JAH-mah) Cooperative economics emphasizes our collective economic strength and encourages us to 

meet common needs through mutual support.  

Theme 5 

Nia (NEE-yah) Purpose encourages us to look within ourselves and to set personal goals that are beneficial to the 

community.  

Theme 6 

Kuumba (koo-OOM-bah) Creativity makes use of our creative energies to build and maintain a strong and vibrant

community.  

Theme 7 

Imani (ee-MAH-nee) 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. 

Facts

Kwanzaa also means first fruits.

Candles are lit every day of the week on the Kwanzaa celebration

The color black represents the people. The color red is for their struggle, and the color green represents the future and the hope that comes as a result of the struggle.