First celebrated in 1966, Kwanzaa is a celebration of Black culture and African diasporic unity.
Each day of Kwanzaa is dedicated to a principle to be reflected on and celebrated. Today marks the start of the seven days that conclude on January 1st with an affirmation of the importance of faith. The diversity of our county, where more than 100 languages and cultures are represented, makes us truly special.
In order, the principles are Umoja (unity), Kujichagulia (self-determination), Ujima (collective work and responsibility), (cooperative economics), Nia (purpose), Kuumba (creativity) and Imani (faith).
The principles, as well as greetings and phrases spoken during Kwanzaa, are in Swahili, as it’s historically been one of the most popular African lingua franca.