Habari Gani: 7 Principles of Kwanzaa

The following reflections are adapted from a series of social media posts authored by Canton resident and CDEI member Naomi Akan to commemorate Kwanzaa — an annual, seven-day celebration of African heritage, unity and culture celebrated throughout the world. For each day of Kwanzaa in 2020, Akan highlighted one of the holiday’s Seven Principles — collectively called the Nguzo Saba — while exploring the “different ways we can apply these concepts in our daily lives.”

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The first and foundational principle of Kwanzaa is Umoja, which represents unity. Umoja stresses the importance of togetherness for the family and the community, which is reflected in the African proverb, “I am because we are.” Those powerful words inspire us to live in unity. Hoping the light of Kwanzaa brings us all joy, peace and togetherness.

For day two of Kwanzaa, we honor the principle of Kujichagulia, or self-determination. Who are you at your core? How have you been blindly allowing societal biases to shape you? What are you determined to accomplish today, tomorrow, and next year?

On day three, our focus turns to Ujima — collective work and responsibility. Last year, in the spirit of Ujima, CHS students delivered “Hate Has No Home Here” lawn signs in our community and surrounding towns Celebrating Kwanzaa helps us reconnect to our purpose.

For the fourth day, we proudly celebrate Ujamaa, or cooperative economics — building and maintaining our own stores, shops and other businesses and profiting from them together. We are committed to supporting Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) as well as local community businesses in Canton. We strive to economically empower while uplifting each other.

On day five of Kwanzaa — which is today! — we celebrate Nia, meaning purpose. You’re encouraged to set achievable, personal goals, in addition to broader goals that will benefit you and the community. Be sure to spend time today reflecting on your purpose. Celebrate how you have brought joy, wellness, inspiration and prosperity to others and yourself. Also, grow through each experience.

As we welcome day six, our attention shifts to Kuumba, or creativity. This principle is all about finding new and innovative ways to leave our community “more beautiful and beneficial than we inherited it.” Dance, art and poetry are some ways we comfortably express ourselves creatively. As BIPOC, we have to remain creative to rebuild our culture and heritage. Creativity ultimately leads to sustainable progress.

For the seventh and last day of Kwanzaa, we will light the final green candle as we celebrate Imani, meaning faith. In the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., “Faith is taking the first step, even when you don’t see the whole staircase.” Imani begins with a profound belief in our Creator and extends to our people, parents, teachers, leaders, and the righteousness and victory of our struggle. When faced with new challenges, we will need to embrace them with hope, grace and remain sustained by faith.

Happy Kwanzaa and Happy New Year!

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Posted by Guest on Dec 30 2021. Filed under Featured Content. Both comments and pings are currently closed.