Clara L. Richardson Family Kwanzaa

Connecting African Americans through the celebration of Kwanzaa

What is Kwanzaa?

Kwanzaa is a weeklong celebration held in the United States and other nations of the African diaspora in the Americas, that honors African heritage in African-American culture. It is observed from December 26th to January 1st, and culminates in a feast and gift-giving.

The Seven Principles

Kwanzaa celebrates seven principles that have been key to the survival and social progress of African-Americans. They are: Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self-Determination), Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility), Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), Kuumba (Creativity), and Imani (Faith). The principles are represented by seven candles in a kinara, or candle holder, and each day of Kwanzaa is devoted to one of them.