By Shannon Dawson Kwanzaa, an annual celebration of African culture spanning from Dec. 26 to Jan.1, originated in 1966 amid the Black Freedom Movement. The celebration was created by Dr. Maulana Karenga, an activist and esteemed professor of Africana studies at California State University, Long Beach. Rooted in the early harvest festivities of Africa, this holiday holds deep cultural significance for many African Americans and communities connected to the African diaspora. Kwanzaa derives from the phrase, “matunda ya kwanza,” in Swahili, which means “first fruits.” Every year, families light seven candles, which are also called mishumaa saba. They are placed
The post A Complete Guide To Celebrating Kwanzaa appeared first on HBCU News.
