
The 7 Principles of Kwanzaa
Kwanzaa is most commonly known as a time of learning, family, celebration, and tradition. During the week of Kwanzaa, both families and communities unite to partake in a feast, honor and affirm their ancestors, and celebrate different aspects of Black culture. Each day, community members light a candle that represents the principle of that day; they then breathe life into the principles by partaking in activities such as reciting poetry and stories, drumming, and sharing African cuisine. Homes are decorated during this time with the essential symbols of Kwanzaa, such as the kinara (candle holder), mkeka (mat), muhindi (corn), mazao (fruit), and zawadi (gifts). The home may also be decorated with the colors of the African diaspora – red, black, and green.