HCC-Southwest’s Scarcella Center will be the site of the 1st Annual Kwanzaa Celebration on Thursday, December 9, 2004, 12:pm-1:30pm, Auditorium(w102).

Kwanzza is an African American holiday originated in 1966 by founder, Dr. Maulena Karenga of Los Angeles, Ca. In essence he stated, “it pays homage to our history and struggles for liberation on a higher level of human life.” Kwanzaa serves as a reflection and product of our life experiences and needs. Culturally, it is the expression of the self –conscious creativity of a people conscious and proud of its history and committed to its future. Politically, it is a projection of the power that comes from unity and self-determination implied in and necessary for our agreement to establish and celebrate such a holiday.

Kwanzaa which means “first fruits of harvest,” is celebrated for seven days from December 26-January 1. It is a cultural rather than religious holiday. Kwanzaa is based upon the Nguzo Saba(seven guiding principles), one for each day of the observance. The seven principles are UMOJA(unity), KUJICHAGULIA(self-determination), UJIMA(collective work and responsibility), UJAMAA(cooperative economics), NIA (purpose), KUUMBA(creativity), and IMANI(faith). A candle is lighted for each day. The first day starts with a black candle, it represents unity. The six days alternate between lighting a red candle, representing struggle and a green candle, representing a “green future”.

Inspired by the civil rights struggle of the 1960’s and based on ancient African celebrations, Kwanzaa has become increasingly popular over the last decade. More than 20 million people celebrate in the United States, Canada, England, the Caribbean and Africa.

Please join us for this unique holiday celebration.