As we come together to celebrate the rich, vibrant tradition of Kwanzaa, this is a time for reflection, renewal, and rejoicing in the strength of our community, our history, and our shared commitment to the future.
Kwanzaa, founded by Dr. Maulana Karenga in 1966, is more than just a holiday. It is a powerful reminder of our ancestral roots, a celebration of African-American culture, and a call to action to live by the principles that uplift us all. Each day of Kwanzaa reflects one of the Seven Principles — Nguzo Saba — that serve as a foundation for personal and collective growth:
1. Umoja (Unity) – Let us stand together, bound by the ties that connect us as one people, united in our pursuit of progress and joy.
2. Kujichagulia (Self-Determination) – Let us celebrate our agency, our ability to shape our destiny, and embrace our right to define ourselves in this world.
3. Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility) – Together, we achieve more. This principle reminds us that we must support one another, share our burdens, and build communities where everyone thrives.
4. Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics) – Let us honor the economic power we hold when we invest in our own businesses, uplift our communities, and support the generations to come.
5. Nia (Purpose) – May this season ignite within us a renewed sense of purpose, encouraging us to live with intention and contribute to the collective good of our people and our world.
6. Kuumba (Creativity) – Our creativity is a source of innovation and strength. This principle calls us to strive for excellence, pushing boundaries and forging new paths to enrich our communities.
7. Imani (Faith) – Let us hold firm in our faith—faith in ourselves, in our families, in our communities, and in our ability to create a just and compassionate world.
As we light the candles of the Kinara, we reflect on the beauty of our culture, the struggles and triumphs of our ancestors, and the promise of what we can achieve when we stand together in love, unity, and strength.
Kwanzaa is not only a time to honor our past, but to embrace the present and boldly step into our future. Let the spirit of Kwanzaa guide us as we work together to build a brighter tomorrow. May we continue to inspire, uplift, and empower one another, for we are our greatest resource.
Happy Kwanzaa!
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Previous webinar links from the series "Where Do We Go From Here?"
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