Kwanzaa was created to introduce and reinforce seven basic values of African culture which contribute to building and reinforcing family, community and culture among African American people as well as Africans throughout the world African community.
These values are called the Nguzo Saba which in Swahili means the Seven Principles. Developed by Dr. Karenga, the Nguzo Saba stand at the heart of the origin and meaning of Kwanzaa, for it is these values which are not only the building blocks for community but also serve to reinforce and enhance them.
The first principle is Umoja or Unity. The Unity principle instructs that each member of the family and by extension the community is constituted by a web of interpersonal relationships. The health and possibilities of the family and community, therefore, is dependent upon the quality of relationship within the family and community.
Looking for places near you celebrating Kwanzaa? We’ve put together a list of places around the country to get you started.
Philadelphia: The African Museum of Philadelphia
New York: Dec. 27th Long Island Children’s Museum
DC: Kwanzaa Celebrations in the Metro area
Miami: What’s Happening for Kwanzaa
For more on how to celebrate Kwanzaa or info on founder Dr. Maulana Karenga click here.
