The Nguzo Saba (The 7 Principles)
This principle teaches people to stick together as a family and community.
What is Umoja?
The mat that all Kwanzaa symbols sit on.
What is the Mkeka?
The person who created Kwanzaa.
Who is Dr. Maulana Karenga?
The language used for most Kwanzaa words.
What is Swahili?
The dates Kwanzaa is celebrated.
What is December 26–January 1?
This principle is about naming yourself and speaking for yourself
What is Kujichagulia?
The candle holder that represents African roots and ancestors.
What is the Kinara?
The year Kwanzaa began.
What is 1966?
The greeting that means “What is the news?”
What is “Habari Gani?”
The first candle lit and what it represents.
What is the black candle, representing the people?
This principle encourages supporting and building businesses in your own community.
What is Ujamaa?
The seven candles that stand for the seven principles.
What are the Mishumaa Saba?
Kwanzaa was created during this movement for Black freedom in the 1960s.
What is the Civil Rights / Black Power Movement?
The answer given to “Habari Gani?” on the first day of Kwanzaa.
What is Umoja?
The big community meal held on December 31.
What is Karamu?
This principle focuses on working together to solve community problems.
What is Ujima?
These items show the results of hard work and cooperation.
What are the Mazao?
Kwanzaa is meant to be this kind of holiday, not a religious one.
What is a cultural holiday?
The Swahili word that means “creativity.”
What is Kuumba?
After the black candle, which color candles are lit first?
What is red candles?
This principle teaches faith in people, leaders, and the future.
What is Imani?
Gifts that teach culture, history, or responsibility.
What is Zawadi?
Kwanzaa is based on African celebrations that honored this part of the year.
What are African harvest (first-fruits) celebrations?
The Swahili word that means “purpose.”
What is Nia?
The principle that guides giving meaningful gifts.
What is Kuumba?