Kwanzaa are an important part of kids’ lives. They connect children to their family and community and give everyone a sense of “who they are.”
In the African-American culture, Kwanzaa is a holiday that honors tradition and deepens children’s understanding of their heritage. It’s also a lot of fun—seven days of food, music, dancing, creativity and other family activities.
What is Kwanzaa?
Kwanzaa (also spelled Kwanza) was founded in 1966 as a way to celebrate African-American heritage, community, family, justice and nature. It’s not a religious holiday; it’s a celebration of unity and ancestry.
Kwanzaa lasts for seven days, starting Dec. 26. Each day is dedicated to a different principle, together known as Nguzo Saba:
Umoja, or unity
Kujichagulia, or self determination
Ujima, or collective work and responsibility
Ujamaa, or cooperative economics
Nia, or purpose
Kuumba, or creativity
Imani, or faith
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