Kwanzaa is a week-long African American festival (December 26-January 1) that concludes one year and begins another. The festival comes from the East-African Swahili phrase "Marunda Ya Kwanzaa," which means "first fruits of the harvest," and was established in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga, a leading theorist of African-American history and culture.

As a cultural celebration, Kwanzaa has no ties to specific religious beliefs or practices. It can, however, be enhanced by individual faith practices and traditions. Central to the celebration are Nguzo Saba or the Seven Principles of Kwanzaa.

Nguzo Saba - Seven Principles of Kwanzaa

Nguzo Saba are seven social and spiritual principles for everyday living developed by Dr. Karenga. These principles deal with the ways we relate to one another and the development of positive self and cultural images. To view a daily scripture reading and reflection, click on the principles below.

The Seven Principles of Kwanzaa are:

• UMOJA (oo-MOE-jah) Unity
• KUJICHAGULIA (koo-jee-cha-goo-LEE-ah) Self-determination
• UJIMA (oo-JEE-mah) Collective work and responsibility
• UJAMAA (oo-JAH-mah) Cooperative economics
• NIA (nee-AH) Purpose
• KUUMBA (koo-OOM-bah)
• IMANI (ee-MAH-nee) Faith