What does Kwanzaa mean?

Kwanzaa is a Swahili word that means "first," and it signifies the first fruits of the harvest. Between December 26th through January 1st, many people of African descent in America celebrate Kwanza. Kwanza is a celebration of African American culture. Kwanza also demonstrates seven core principles. They revolve around community, family, co-operation, and respect for your teachers.

A Kwanza ceremony may include drumming, musical performances, and singing, a reading of the African Pledge, and the Principles of Blackness. It may also provide the people with a reflection of the Pan Africa colors, a dialogue of the African rules of the day or a chapter in African history, artistic performance, and finally, a feast.

Kwanzaa is a special holiday targeted at celebrating the African-American culture. It is a Swahili word which represents the first fruits of their harvest. It is celebrated for seven days. The celebration starts on December 26 and ends on January 1. Kwanzaa is celebrated mostly in the United States and in some African countries. Kwanzaa is not a religious holiday; the fact that it starts the day after Christmas celebration doesn't make it religious.

The idea behind the celebration was from a professor at California State University, Dr. Maulana Karenga, in 1966, and it was equally supported by the US Organization. The main reason for this celebration is to bring and foster the existing relationship among African-American communities and also to promote their cultures. Each day is celebrated by looking at seven different important principles that are conveyed in the celebration. These principles are; Unity, Self-Determination, Collective Work and Responsibility, Cooperative Economics, Purpose, Creativity, and Faith.