I was introduced to Kwanzaa as a sixth grader in the mid-90s. It was in Ms. Hammond’s classroom I first learned of the Ngozu Saba, the seven principles of Kwanzaa. I remember being curious and intrigued about the holiday that is not a substitute for Christmas, but rather an additional time of celebrations and gathering with family.
Although my nuclear family didn’t formally incorporate Kwanzaa during my childhood, the principles and themes were definitely present. In recent years, I have been excited to participate with my children in local Kwanzaa celebrations. Thankfully, we have a few organizations planning events around Birmingham with the whole family in mind.
History
Kwanzaa is derived from a Swahili phrase used in African first-fruit celebrations. Maulana Ron Karenga organized the first celebration of Kwanzaa in 1966. This seven day celebration of African-American and Pan-African family, culture, and community kicks off December 26th and culminates on January first. The seven candles of the kinara are red, black, and green. An elder in the family lights a candle each day. The following seven principles of Kwanzaa are collectively known as the Ngozu Saba:
Umoja (Unity)- Kujichagulia (Self-Determination)
- Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility)
- Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics)
- Nia (Purpose)
- Kuumba (Creativity)
- Imani (Faith)
How to Celebrate
Creativity is on full display during the week of Kwanzaa. Expect events to be filled with delectable sights, sounds, and smells. From the fashions and decor, to soothing music, to lively dancing, to homemade meals prepared with care, all the senses will be engaged when gathered with family and friends during Kwanzaa. “Habari Gani” is a greeting used during Kwanzaa. It can be translated as “How are you?” or “What’s the news?” The typical response given is the principle of the day.
I love that family is a core Kwanzaa principle. While the kids are out of school for Winter Break, we have more bonding time attending these events. Some of our favorite memories from past events have included the following activities:
- creating vision boards using magazine cutouts
- listening to visual artists share inspiration behind their art pieces
- learning West African dances
- following the rhythm of the djembe drums
- weaving pot holders
We’ve also listened to stories from amazing griots and brought home Kwanzaa-themed books for our home library. Mrs. Vernessa Barnes of East Lake shared a beautiful insight of how her family incorporated Kwanzaa.
“Sharing Kwanzaa with my daughter, grandson, and even the youth in my church was always a wonderful opportunity to teach them culturally-rich principles to build on their spiritual values. Not as a replacement, but as an enhancement.”
Although the visibility of Kwanzaa has been amplified in recent years, the holiday has been observed for over 50 years. You can find opportunities to participate on the Birmingham Kwanzaa Facebook page. Other resources offering activities for all ages are the Birmingham Public Library branches and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute.
