Kwanzaa Vocab
What does Kwanzaa mean?
Kwanzaa comes from the Swahili phrase “matunda ya kwanza,” which means “first fruits.” It is a celebration of the harvest and the first fruits of the labor.
What is the 2nd day of Kwanzaa
Kujijachulia
Who founded Kwanzaa, in what year, and what was the primary purpose behind its creation?
Kwanzaa was created by Dr. Maulana Karenga, a visionary professor and cultural activist, in response to the need for African Americans to reconnect with their ancestry and establish a collective identity.
Who are our founders of Kwanzaa
Sheila & Kiki
What is the name of the traditional Kwanzaa greeting?
The traditional Kwanzaa greeting is “Habari gani?” which means “What’s the news?” in Swahili.
What is the Swahili term for "Mat"
Mkeka
What is the 5th day of Kwanzaa?
Nia: Purpose
What are the colors of Kwanzaa, and what do they represent?
The colors of Kwanzaa are black, red, and green. Black represents the people, red represents their blood & their struggles, and green represents the land.
How many years have we been celebrating kwanzaa?
35 Years
What is the significance of the number seven in Kwanzaa?
The number seven represents the seven principles of Kwanzaa and the seven days of the celebration.
What is the Nguzo Saba
seven principles of Kwanzaa
What is Kikombe Cha Umoja?
The unity cup
What is the significance of the kinara in Kwanzaa celebrations?
The kinara is a candle holder that holds seven candles. It represents the seven principles of Kwanzaa. The black candle in the center is lit first, followed by the red and green candles on either side. Each day of Kwanzaa, a new candle is lit to represent one of the principles.
What principle is normally celebrated during watch night service?
Kuumba: Creativity
What is the name of the traditional Kwanzaa song?
“Lift Every Voice and Sing” is a traditional Kwanzaa song that celebrates the strength and resilience of the African-American community.
What is Mazao ?
(The Crops)
These are symbolic of African harvest celebrations and of the rewards of productive and collective labor.
What is the purpose of the Nguzo Saba, or seven principles of Kwanzaa?
The Nguzo Saba serve as a guide for people to live their lives in a way that honors their African heritage and uplifts their community.
Where was the first Kwanzaa celebration?(State)
California
Who is our Kwanzaa baby?
Jonathan Hunter
What does Mishumaa Saba represent?
The seven candles placed in the Kinara
What is Muhindi ?
(The Corn)
This is symbolic of our children and our future which they embody.
Name all seven principles in reverse order and their definitions.
Imani:Faith Kuumba:Creativity Nia:Purpose ujamaa:Cooperative econmis Ujima:Collective work & responsiblity Kujijachulia:Self Determination Umoja:Unity
What year was the first Kwanzaa celebration held?
The first Kwanzaa celebration was held in 1966.
What Year was our first Kwanzaa Celebration?
It was held in 1989
What is the name of the traditional Kwanzaa feast?
The traditional Kwanzaa feast is called Karamu. It is held on December 31st and is a time for families and friends to come together to enjoy food, music, and fellowship.