Kwanzaa | Day 1

LIBERATION LECTIONARY ~ Christmastide

Umoja ~ Unity

“There can be no divided democracy, no class government, no half-free county, under the constitution. There can be no discrimination, no segregation, no separation of some citizens from the rights which belong to all. We are on our way. But these are frontiers which we must conquer.  We must gain full equality in education in the franchise,  in economic opportunity, and full equality in the abundance of life.” Mary McLeod Bethune

Sydney G James- M'Balou Embodies Umoja, 2021

We celebrate Kwanzaa by decorating our spaces with pan-African symbols, such as the Kinara (Candle Holder), Mkeka (Mat), Muhindi (corn to represent the children), Mazao (fruit to represent the harvest), and Zawadi (gifts). We also use the colors of the Pan-African flag, red (the struggle), black (the people), and green (the future). 

Every day of Kwanzaa, we exchange a Swahili traditional greeting “Habari gani?” which in english means “what’s the news?” The response to this greeting each day is the principle of the day. Together these are called Nguzo Saba - the seven principles. Each principle is a theme that guides our learning and reflection.

Habari Gani?

Today’s Principle is Umoja, which means Unity.  To strive for and maintain unity in the family, community, nation, and race.

Light a candle as you reflect on the ways we can build or continue unity, and celebrate the stories of unity that we can hold on to and share with each other every day.

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Today’s Scripture: Psalm 133:1

"Oh how good and pleasant it is when loved ones dwell in unity!" 

Music: ”Black Folk” by Tank & The Bangas (ft. Alex Isley & Masego)