The Story
Kwanzaa was founded in 1966 by Dr. Mualanga Karenga after the civil rights movement and riots left black communities in shambles without a sense of purpose. The symbols, language, and representations of African clothing and decor are a synthesis of culture meant to connect African Americans to their African heritage and create a foundation for our community development.
Kwanzaa is not an African holiday, but it’s inspired by many African cultural practices. It is also not a religious holiday. The word Kwanzaa means "first fruits" in Swahili, a language spoken in Eastern Africa, and refers to the joy and unity many Africans have when celebrating the harvest season. The holiday encourages people to honor seven principles: unity, self-determination (helping yourself succeed), collective work and responsibility (teamwork), cooperative economics (sharing), purpose, creativity, and faith.
At Halisi, we believe that this holiday still has value in society today. We celebrate Kwanzaa every year to create a dialog around how these traditions can better bring us together as a community. At the very least, we enjoy a meal and a good time with friends.
Umoja
Tuesday December 26th at 7pm join us for our discussion and activity of the Kwanzaa principle Umoja, which means Unity in the East African language of Swahili.
Ujima
Thursday December 28th at 7pm join us for our discussion and activity of the Kwanzaa principle Ujima, which means collective work and responsibility.
Nia
Saturday December 30th at 7pm join us for our discussion and activity of the Kwanzaa principle Nia, which means purpose.
Imani
Monday January 1st at 7pm join us for our discussion and activity of the Kwanzaa principle Imani, which means faith.
Kujichagulia
Wednesday December 27th at 7pm join us for our discussion and activity of the Kwanzaa principle Kujichagulia, which means self-determination.
Ujamaa
Friday December 29th at 7pm join us for our discussion and activity of the Kwanzaa principle Ujamaa, which means brotherhood and cooperative economics.
Kuumba
Sunday December 31th at 7pm join us for our discussion and activity of the Kwanzaa principle Kuumba, which means creativity.
