Kwanzaa: History

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Kwanzaa is a non-religious holiday celebrated around the world from December 26 to January 1. On the sixth day, families and communities gather for a communal feast called Karamu. The name “Kwanzaa” comes from the Swahili phrase matunda ya kwanza, meaning “first fruits.”

Kwanzaa honors African American people—their heritage, culture, and the struggles they have faced in the United States. It blends African American and various African cultural traditions, including the use of Swahili, a Pan-African language. This reflects the Pan-African belief in unity among all African people.

The holiday was created in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga, following the 1965 Watts Riots in Los Angeles. It emerged from the Black Power Movement as a way for African Americans to celebrate and reclaim their cultural identity.

Kwanzaa is also a time for thoughtful reflection. Throughout the week, people are encouraged to ask themselves:

Are my actions and beliefs rooted in cultural tradition?
Who am I?
What is my purpose in the world?
How can I align my purpose with my values and traditions?
How can I use my creative talents to make a difference in the world?
How can I directly impact the well-being of my family and community?

These reflective questions are inspired by Kawaida, Dr. Karenga’s cultural philosophy. Kawaida teaches that our actions and beliefs should be rooted in tradition and guided by reason. Tradition connects us to our roots and provides cultural strength, while reason helps us think critically about those traditions—so we can preserve what’s meaningful, adapt what needs to grow, and continue evolving through lived experience.

During Kwanzaa, families and communities come together to honor the past, remember their ancestors, reaffirm their hopes for the future, and give thanks for the harvest—symbolized by the Nguzo Saba, or The Seven Principles. Rather than staying fixed in the past, Kwanzaa keeps traditions alive, relevant, and evolving—guiding one forward with pride, purpose, and direction.

Reading to keep the spirit of Kwanzaa going: