What is ‘Kwanzaa’ and where it celebrates?
Dr. Maulana Karenga, a professor and chair of Black Studies at California State University, Long Beach, introduced Kwanzaa in 1966. Following the Watts riots in Los Angeles, Dr. Karenga sought avenues to foster unity within the African American community. Establishing US, a cultural organization, he delved into research on African “first fruit” (harvest) festivities. Karenga amalgamated elements from various harvest celebrations, including those of the Ashanti and Zulu, laying the groundwork for this week-long holiday. Kwanzaa in 2023 commences on Tuesday, December 26, and extends through Monday, January 1, 2024.
History of Kwanzaa
Seven Principles to Celebrate this event
The seven principles, known as Nguzo Saba, were conceptualized by Dr. Maulana Karenga. Each day of Kwanzaa highlights a distinct principle:
