What is Kwanzaa?
"Always be joyful because you belong to the Lord. I will say it again. Be joyful!" (Philippians 4:4).
Kwanzaa is an African-American holiday to celebrate family and heritage.This holiday was created in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga. It is celebrated during December 26 to January 1. It is a time when African-Americans celebrate family, community, and their African culture. It is also a time when people reflect on who they are and how they can do good in the world.
Dr. Karenga created seven principles that represent the origin and meaning of Kwanzaa: Unity, Self-Determination, Collective Work and Responsibility, Cooperative Economics, Purpose, Creativity, and Faith. Dr. Karenga also created symbols, greetings, colors, and decorations that are important to the holiday. Gifts, including books and symbols, are often given to children during Kwanzaa.
Many African-Americans celebrate Kwanzaa as well as Christmas. Just like Christmas, the way each families celebrate Kwanzaa can differ quite a bit. Some African-American families celebrate Kwanzaa by including ideas that may conflict with teachings in the Bible. But other families celebrate Kwanzaa in ways that are honoring to their heritage and also to God.
