Kwanzaa
Kwanzaa begins: Tuesday, December 26, 2017
Kwanzaa ends: Monday, January 01, 2018
Kwanzaa ends: Monday, January 01, 2018
- The Nguzo Saba (7 Principles of Kwanzaa)
- Day 1. Umoja means unity.
- Day 2. Kujichagulia means self-determination.
- Day 3. Ujima means working together.
- Day 4. Ujamaa means supporting each other.
- Day 5. Nia means purpose.
- Day 6. Kuumba means creativity.
- Day 7. Imani means faith, especially faith in ourselves.
I tried to choose one principle that stood out more than the rest, but decided that they all are needed. It is a combination of all 7 principles that leads to the results we need to seek to accomplish our goals. I personally believe that for us to benefit collectively and function as community, we especially need unity. We need to work together, and we need to support each other. I think that is what we lack. It is hard to support one another monetarily, when we, ourselves are struggling to survive, but support does not just mean monetary support. We also need to support each other emotionally. Instead of being jealous of our brother's success, we need to congratulate him on his accomplishments. We have to seek more to work together, stop being critical of our black businesses and support them. Then, business owners, you have to provide service with excellence. This means, you go the extra mile for your customers.
It is clear that Blacks in America will always have to struggle, but we are not quitters. We have to continue to fight to get what as Americans, we should have. There is wealth among us, but we need a commitment from those who are able to pour into programs that will enable us to progress. There are many who already do this, but not enough.
Then, churches have to set aside their individual agendas and come together as one, regardless of denomination. I know they can have more influence within the community if they worked together. Public schools are failing our children, and that needs to be addressed along with many other issues.
I read an article that criticized the celebration of Kwanzaa and it's founder. I believe that truth can be found in many forms and from many individuals. Just because you don't approve of the founder or the celebration, does not mean it is not valid. It is valid to whoever sees it as truth. So, to those, who accept Kwanzaa and believe in it's principle, I say Happy Kwanzaa.
It is clear that Blacks in America will always have to struggle, but we are not quitters. We have to continue to fight to get what as Americans, we should have. There is wealth among us, but we need a commitment from those who are able to pour into programs that will enable us to progress. There are many who already do this, but not enough.
Then, churches have to set aside their individual agendas and come together as one, regardless of denomination. I know they can have more influence within the community if they worked together. Public schools are failing our children, and that needs to be addressed along with many other issues.
I read an article that criticized the celebration of Kwanzaa and it's founder. I believe that truth can be found in many forms and from many individuals. Just because you don't approve of the founder or the celebration, does not mean it is not valid. It is valid to whoever sees it as truth. So, to those, who accept Kwanzaa and believe in it's principle, I say Happy Kwanzaa.