Comprising seven days in late December to early January, Kwanzaa is a non-religious holiday observed by an estimated nine million Black Americans. It’s rooted in the civil rights movement and inspired by a myriad of West, East, and Southwest African harvest traditions. Despite the cultural significance it has for many, it’s overshadowed by other winter holidays like Christmas and Hanukkah. Kwanzaa deserves more awareness among the general population. Read below to learn a few quick facts about this holiday.
Kwanzaa is not considered a religious holiday, and more of a cultural expression and time of remembrance and honoring ancestors.
Each day of Kwanzaa focuses on celebrating one of seven principles. Umoja (unity), Kujichagulia (self determination), Ujimila (collective work and responsibility), Nia (purpose), Kuumba (creativity), and Imani (faith).
Families light a candle each night on a “Kinara,” which is a special candle holder.
People decorate their houses with African art, colors, and symbols, like the classic black, red, and green combination.
On Dec. 31, many celebrate with a large feast named Karamu, meaning "feast" in Swahili.