Kwanzaa is a week-long cultural holiday celebrated primarily in the United States from December 26 through January 1. The Friends honor Kwanzaa by co-hosting a series of events in our community that celebrate the seven principles of Kwanzaa. We partner with local organizations to create a diverse series of events that are open to the public without charge.

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Kwanzaa centers on seven principles, called the Nguzo Saba:

1. Umoja — Unity

2. Kujichagulia — Self-Determination

3. Ujima — Collective Work and Responsibility

4. Ujamaa — Cooperative Economics

5. Nia — Purpose

6. Kuumba — Creativity

7. Imani — Faith

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The Friends may celebrate by lighting a kinara (candle holder), displaying the mishumaa saba (seven candles), sharing meals, telling stories, listening to music, giving meaningful gifts, and gathering with family and community.

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The colors associated with Kwanzaa are red, black, and green:

• Black represents the people.

• Red represents struggle and sacrifice.

• Green represents hope, growth, and the future.

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The name Kwanzaa comes from the Swahili phrase matunda ya kwanza, meaning “first fruits,” referring to traditional African harvest celebrations.