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"Kwanzaa is an African American holiday that combines African traditions with American customs. Seven sacred principles are celebrated during the holiday, which begins December 26 and ends January 1." The words are Swahili:

7 Principles:

1. Umoja (Unity)
2. Kujichangulia (Self determination)
3. Ujima (Collective work and
responsibility)
4. Ujamaa (Economics)
5. Nia (Purpose)
6. Kuumba (Creativity)
7. Imani (Faith)

7 - Symbols:

1. Mazeo - "The fruits and vegetables of the harvest that are part of the celebration table"

2. Mkeka - "The place mat on which the fruits and vegetables are arranged"

3. Kinara - "The seven branched candle stick"

4. Mishumaa saba - "The red, black and green candles that are lit each evening"

5. Vibunzi - "The ear of corn that is representative of each child in the family."

6. Kikombe cha umoja - "The communal chalice from which the ceremonial libation is poured."

7. Zawadi - "The gifts that are given at Kwanzaa."

(Jeanne Wright, The Washington Post,
12/19/95)