San Bernardino, CA – Habri Gani, Nia! That is the Swahili terminology for what’s the good news, purpose. Today marks the fifth day of the African American holiday Kwanzaa. Celebrated by millions of people around the African Diaspora, Kwanzaa is a seven day holiday rooted in the practice of seven principles or values that connect Black people to one another and those of African descent around the world.
The Inland Area Kwanzaa Group held its 44th Annual Kwanzaa Karamu on Monday, December 27th, which is the
second day Kujichagulia (Self-determination). Community members filled the room at the New Hope Family Life Center’s Enterprise Building some of which celebrated the holiday for the first time.
“What I like most about Kwanzaa is that it gives us a roadmap to be successful,” said Carl Dameron of Dameron Communications.
Though the holiday is celebrated on the 26th day of December through the 1st day of January, Kwanzaa is more about the daily practice of living by the values set forth in the Kwaidaa Philosophy. That philosophy is the “synthesis of the best of African thought and practice,” said Dr. Maulana Karenga the creator of Kwanzaa.
Its daily practice can be seen in action when Assembly Member Wilmer Amina Carter addresses the needs of her
constituency. Her current principle in action is to exercise Kuumba (Creativity) as she works to locate all of the community gardens within the 62nd Assembly District. “As an Assembly Member it is my job to make sure people know about it,” said Assembly Member Carter of the 62nd. Identifying the gardens will provide healthier food options to her constituency.
“You have to put these principles in your mind because it’s a practice,” said Ratibu Jacocks of the Inland Area Kwanzaa
Group.
“We are looking for young people to study and practice the principles,” said Assembly Member Carter of the 62nd District.
To learn more about Kwanzaa you can visit the official website at, www.officialkwanzaawebsite.org. You can also connect with the Inland Area Kwanzaa Group by calling (909) 820-4406, or by email at Ratibu@ef-cbs.com.