How did Kwanzaa start? What language does Kwanzaa speak?

Kwanzaa celebrates African heritage, unity, and culture. It was created in 1966 by Maulana Karenga, a professor of Africana studies and an Afrocentrist activist.

The name Kwanzaa comes from the Swahili phrase “matunda ya kwanza”, meaning “first fruits”. Swahili is a language spoken in several East African countries, such as Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.

Kwanzaa is not a religious holiday, nor is it meant to replace Christmas. It is observed from December 26 to January 1 in the United States and other parts of the African diaspora.

Each day of Kwanzaa is dedicated to one of the seven principles: unity, self-determination, collective responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith.

These principles are symbolized by seven candles in a candleholder, as well as other items such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, a straw mat, ears of corn, gifts, and a communal cup. On December 31, there is a community feast called the karamu. Some people also wear traditional African clothing during the celebration.