As Kwanzaa 2025 Begins, Black Americans Reflect on Culture and Community
Every year, from Dec 26th – Jan 1st, the holiday season of Kwanzaa is a celebration of African American and Pan African heritage, tradition, and culture.
First celebrated in 1966, Kwanzaa was founded by scholar and activist Maulana Karenga. Kwanzaa was meant to bring cultural awareness to Black/Pan African history and culture at a time when racism and anti-Black violence was prevalent. The word “Kwanzaa” is a Swahili word for “first fruits”. On each of the seven nights, Black families gather around the candleholder called the Kinara, and discuss the respective principle.
The seven principles, or Nguzo Saba, are: Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self-Determination), Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility), Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), Kuumba (Creativity), and Imani (Faith). Each day and principle has an array of activities to personify each principle.
There is a rising influx of African Americans across various demographics embracing African traditions now more than ever. Writer Kiara Hay, in their 2023 article for WXYZ Detroit, “More Black Americans Turning To Spirituality and African Traditions Over Organized Religion”, writes, “research shows a growing number of Black Americans are turning away from organized religion, and many are now embracing spirituality and African traditions…a Pew Research study confirms Black Americans who demographically are the most religious in the country are turning away from organized religion in large numbers. In one decade, 11% fewer Black people considered themselves Christians and 7% more claim to be unaffiliated with any religion.”
With social and political unrest becoming more and more prevalent, many Black Americans perhaps are seeking refuge in spaces where Black and Pan African practices are explored and encouraged. Kwanzaa represents the act of remembrance of not only African heritage but the legacy of the generations of Black Americans who fought to instill the importance of celebrating the African influence in America.
As the 2020’s decade reaches the second half, much is to be speculated as to what will define the Black American experience. From COVID 19, to racial protests, to the banning of DEI and Affirmative Action, Black Americans have experienced some harsh and culture altering blows. Younger generations, who would historically get their information from school, now receive their information from internet sources such as TikTok and YouTube. They are seeing their experiences reflected back to them through an online lens.
Whether online or in person, Kwanzaa will be celebrated by millions of Black Americans. At a time where unity, collective work, and creativity are needed now more than ever, here’s hoping Kwanzaa’s online awareness will continue to grow and thus continuing to keep the legacy alive.
