Kwanzaa Elements

Original -  Oil on canvas wrap 24" x 36" Kwanzaa is an African American and Pan-African holiday which celebrates family, community and culture. Kwanzaa is a CULTURAL holiday, not a religious one. Kwanzaa was created in 1996 by Dr. Maulana Karenga, professor and chair of the Department of Black Studies at California State University, Long Beach. It is celebrated from December 26 through January 1. The origins of Kwanzaa are in the first harvest celebrations of Africa from which it takes its name. The name Kwanzaa is derived from the phrase "matunda ya kwanza" which means "first fruits" in Swahili. Kwanzaa celebrates and reinforces family and community values. It stresses self reliance and creativity. The elements of Kwanzaa celebration includes the following seven principals: -- Umoja (Unity); To strive for and maintain unity in the family, community, nation, and race. Kujichagulia (Self-Determination); To define ourselves, name ourselves, create for ourselves and speak for ourselves. U