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Home • Kwanzaa

ESSENCE Poll: Do You Observe Kwanzaa?

Kwanzaa is a cultural holiday rather than a religious one, and can be celebrated by all. Do you and your family observe Kwanzaa? 
Do You Observe Kwanzaa?
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By Sylvia Obell · Updated October 27, 2020
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Kwanzaa honors African heritage and celebrates family, community, and culture with its seven principles (Unity, Self-determination, Collective Work and Responsibility, Cooperative Economics, Purpose, Creativity, and Faith). Each principle is represented by a candle on the kinara (candle holder). Typically families come together to light each candle on its respective day and discuss its meaning from December 26 until January 1. Other traditions include honoring ancestors who have passed, singing, and dancing.

To learn more about Kwanzaa, click here.

Kwanzaa is a cultural holiday rather than a religious one, and can be celebrated by all. Do you and your family observe Kwanzaa? 

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