Activism

COMMENTARY: Tapping into Our Timeless Kwanzaa Traditions to Support Black Wellness

While beliefs about the nature and purpose of Kwanzaa differ, its birth has, over the years, resulted in broad appreciation and widespread observance of the seven-day holiday.

Published

3 years ago

January 1, 2024

Oakland Post

Photo Captions: Zetha Nobles, Courtesy of NHUSD. Patricia Nunley, Photo by Dorean Raye.

By Zetha Nobles & Dr. Patricia Nunley

Kwanzaa, an annual celebration of Black heritage and spirituality, was created in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga, during the Black Power Movement. The primary goal of the observance is to promote community wellbeing by fostering Black unity.

The word is derived from the Kiswahili phrase “matunda ya kwanza,” which means “first fruits of the harvest.” While beliefs about the nature and purpose of Kwanzaa differ, its birth has, over the years, resulted in broad appreciation and widespread observance of the seven-day holiday.

Five cultural practices define the observance of Kwanzaa:

Gathering of family, friends and community
Reverence for our elders, ancestors and creation
Commemoration of the past
Recommitment to the highest cultural ideals
Celebration of the “Good of Life”

On Dec. 26, Kwanzaa observers say “Habari Gani?” which means “What’s the news?” This Kiswahili phrase invites us to acknowledge our loved ones and connect with our communities. The response to Habari Gani? corresponds with each of the seven days of Kwanzaa.

On the first day, Umoja (unity), observants light a black candle to call for unity within the family, community, and African nation.

On day two, Dec. 27, the “news” is Kujichagulia (self-determination) in defining, naming, creating and speaking for ourselves. A red candle is lit, reminding us to cultivate an African affirming mindset that equips us to engage in behaviors that illuminate and liberate our spirits, offering protection in an anti-Black society.

A green candle is lit on the third day, Dec.3, to symbolize achievement and Ujima (collective work & responsibility).

The “news” of Day 4 is Ujamaa (cooperative economics). The next red candle is lit to spark the flame of collective financial wellness and economic strength.

On the fifth day, the next green candle is lit to honor the principle of Nia (purpose) as each family/community member declares services she or he will offer the community.

The “news” about Kuumba (creativity) comes on the sixth day, New Year’s Eve. We light a red candle representing a call to do all we can to leave our community more beautiful and prosperous than we inherited it.

The last green candle is lit on the final day of Kwanzaa, Imani (Faith), coinciding with New Year’s Day. It is an invitation to believe in and respect our people, parents, teachers, leaders, and the righteousness and victory of our struggle. Imani is perhaps the most important principle because it is by faith that the seeds planted during the first six days of Kwanzaa will yield a harvest of physical, mental, and spiritual wellbeing throughout the upcoming year — and beyond.

Each Kwanzaa principle represents a pathway for attaining a more balanced state of mental wellbeing enhanced by a positive self-image and a sense of belonging.

Kwanzaa provides an opportunity to engage in activities that uplift positive models of personhood for our children and communities to emulate.

About the Authors

The authors are members of the Association of Black Psychologists (ABPsi) Bay Area Chapter, an organization that provides Post Newspaper readers with critical information about Black Mental Health monthly. Join us at our monthly meetings every third Saturday via Zoom. Contact us at: bayareaabpsi@gmail.com.