![]() Alternatively, some participants buy books, music, art accessories or other culturally themed products, preferably from a Black-owned business. In order to avoid over-commercialization, gifts handed out to family members on the last day of Kwanzaa are often homemade. Homemade and educational gifts are encouraged. Some families who celebrate Kwanzaa dress up or decorate their homes in those colors. Three of the seven candles are red, representing the struggle three of the candles are green, representing the land and hope for the future and one of the candles is black, representing people of African descent. Kwanzaa also has seven symbols–mazao (crops), mkeka (mat), kinara (candleholder), muhindi (corn), kikombe cha umoja (unity cup), zawadi (gifts) and mishumaa saba (seven candles)–that are traditionally arranged on a table. The seven principles of Kwanzaa, as determined by Karenga, are umoja (unity), kujichagulia (self-determination), ujima (collective work and responsibility), ujamaa (cooperative economics), nia (purpose), kuumba (creativity) and imani (faith). ![]() Muslims, Christians, Black Hebrews, Jews, Buddhists, Baha’i and Hindus, as well as those who follow the ancient traditions of Maat, Yoruba, Ashanti, Dogon, etc.” According to Karenga, non-Black people can also enjoy Kwanzaa, just as non-Mexicans commemorate Cinco de Mayo, for example. “Thus, Africans of all faiths can and do celebrate Kwanzaa, i.e. “Kwanzaa is not a religious holiday, but a cultural one with an inherent spiritual quality,” Karenga writes. Though often thought of as an alternative to Christmas, many people actually celebrate both. Many people celebrate both Kwanzaa and Christmas.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
Details
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |