As the holiday season approaches, communities across Washington state are gearing up to celebrate Kwanzaa, a cultural celebration that honors African heritage and values. Kwanzaa, which means “first fruits” in Swahili, is observed from December 26th to January 1st each year. Northwest African American Museum’s Kwanzaa events have been an ongoing success.
Kwanzaa was first established in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga, a professor and activist, as a way to promote unity and reconnect African Americans with their ancestral roots. The holiday emphasizes seven principles known as the Nguzo Saba, which include unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith.
In Washington state, Kwanzaa celebrations take place in various cities and towns, bringing together people to honor and celebrate African culture. Festivities include red, black, and green candle lighting ceremonies, cultural performances, storytelling, music, dance, and traditional African cuisine. Last year the museum’s event focused on the fourth day of Kwanzaa, recognizing the principle of Ujamaa, or Cooperative Economics. The event highlighted the importance of buying from and supporting Black businesses such as The Seattle Medium.
One of the most significant aspects of Kwanzaa is the lighting of the Kinara, a seven-branched candleholder symbolizing the principles of the Nguzo Saba. Each day of the celebration, a candle representing a specific principle is lit, accompanied by discussions and reflections on how to incorporate these principles into daily life.
Community organizations, cultural centers, and educational institutions in Washington state play a vital role in organizing Kwanzaa events. These events provide an opportunity for individuals and families to learn about African traditions, history, and the contributions of African Americans to society.
Kwanzaa celebrations in Washington state also serve as a platform for promoting unity and fostering a sense of belonging within the African American community. It is a time to honor and appreciate the resilience, achievements, and cultural richness of African heritage.
The festivities not only educate and inspire but also encourage dialogue and understanding among different communities. As the Kwanzaa celebrations unfold across Washington state, it is a time for reflection, connection, and renewal of commitment to the principles that Kwanzaa represents. It is a reminder of the importance of unity, self-determination, and collective responsibility in building strong and inclusive communities.
Whether it’s through attending organized events, participating in community discussions, or simply lighting the Kinara at home, Kwanzaa offers an opportunity for individuals to engage in meaningful conversations about culture, heritage, and the shared values that bind us together.
