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Kwanzaa Principles
Kwanzaa is celebrated from December 26th
to January 1st and was created to introduce and reinforce seven basic
values of African culture which contribute to building and reinforcing
family, community and culture among African American people as well as
Africans throughout the world.
These values are called the Nguzo Saba
which in Swahili means the Seven Principles. The principles are
focused upon each day of the 7 day holiday in the order they are
listed below:
Day 1
Umoja (oo-MO-jah) Unity: Stresses the importance of togetherness for
the family, community, nation and race.
Day 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.
Day 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.
Day 4
Ujamaa (oo-JAH-mah) Cooperative Economics: Emphasizes our collective
economic strength and encourages us to meet common needs through
mutual support.
Day 5
Nia (NEE-yah) Purpose: Encourages us to look within ourselves and to
set personal goals that are beneficial to the community.
Day 6
Kuumba (koo-OOM-bah) Creativity: Make use of our creative energies to
build and maintain a strong and vibrant community.
Day 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.
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Kwanzaa Links
· Kwanzaa
History
· Kwanzaa Principles
· Kwanzaa
Clipart
· Kwanzaa Recipes
· Kwanzaa Traditions
· Kwanzaa Pronunciations and Definitions
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