WYSO celebrates Kwanzaa

WYSO Public Radio is excited to honor Kwanzaa, a celebration of African-American culture from December 26th to January 1st.

"Kwanzaa" comes from a Swahili phrase meaning "the first fruits of the harvest."

Kwanzaa is secular and open to all. Join us as we celebrate by honoring the values of unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith.

On the first day of Kwanzaa, we recognize the "Umoja" principle, which means unity. It's a day to strive for and maintain unity within the family and our community. People celebrate the day by making meals, setting up decorations, volunteering to help others, or enjoying games and projects together at home.

The second day of Kwanzaa celebrates the African value of "Kujichagulia." This value means self-determination, defining, naming, and speaking for oneself. Kwanzaa activities include exchanging handmade gifts, preparing African recipes, drumming, and offering libations to honor our ancestors.

• The third day of Kwanzaa celebrates the "Ujima" principle, which stands for collective work and responsibility. In 1966, American professor Maulana Karenga and students from California State University created Kwanzaa. Their initiative came after the deadly Watts riots in Los Angeles.

• The fourth day of Kwanzaa is known as "Ujamaa." Today, the community practices cooperative economics, supporting and shopping with entrepreneurs in our neighborhoods. The principle of "Ujamaa" also encourages families to work collectively on financial goals that benefit the whole household.

• The fifth day of Kwanzaa is called "Nia." It is a small word with a significant meaning. What's your "Nia" or your purpose in life? Do you want to live healthier and happier with more financial freedom and less stress in the coming year? Then, keep the principle in mind every day.

• On the sixth day, we recognize the principle known as "Kuumba." It means creativity. Use your creativity to leave a legacy and make the world a better place than you found it.

• The seventh and final day of Kwanzaa is celebrated as "Imani." Imani is a Swahili word meaning faith, which is a strong principle. This evening, we light the seventh candle to begin the new year. We say together that we believe in our hearts, family, children, teachers, and the righteousness of the struggle for justice and equality.