12/26/2021
Today is the first day of Kwanzaa, an African American and Pan-African holiday founded by Maulana Ron Karenga in 1966 that celebrates history, values, family, community, and culture. The ideas and concepts of the seven-day celebration from December 26 to January 1 are expressed in the Swahili language–one of the most widely spoken languages in Africa.
Every day the celebration begins when the leader asks everyone the official question, “Habari Gani?” or “What's happening?,” in Swahili. The group responds with the principle for the day, which today is Umoja – Unity.
For Kwanzaa history, cultural expressions, new family & children activities & videos, information on the seven principles and an in-depth cooking experience with culinary historian Jessica B. Harris, join our virtual Kwanzaa celebration:
Kwanzaa First Fruits Kwanzaa is a time for families and communities to come together to remember the past and to celebrate African American culture. The celebration begins when the leader asks everyone the official question, "Habari Gani?" (What's happening?). The group responds with the principle f...
