HAPPY KWANZAA

I will start off by saying Habari Gani, which is a Swahili term that means “ What is the news”. It is spoken when greeting others during Kwanzaa and a way of connecting with others to stimulate conversation.

This week I will provide a roadmap for each principle as to educate and share in the positivity and productivity that this celebration provides.

Kwanzaa, which is observed from December 26 through January 1, is a seven-day celebration of African roots, observed by people of all faith backgrounds, since it’s not tied to any religion. Instead, the African American and Pan African holiday is anchored by seven principles known as the Nguzo Saba which aims to inspire Black people to be united, self-determined, accountable for their communities, financially invested in Black-owned businesses, purposeful with their lives, creative and full of faith.

On each night, a candle is lit to observe the nguzo saba, The principles of Kwanzaa are: Umoja (unity), Kujichagulia (self-determination), Ujima (collective work and responsibility), Ujamaa (cooperative economics), Nia (purpose), Kuumba (creativity) and Imani (faith).