Daily Procedures
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Daily Procedures |
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Each evening the family gathers to light the candles. The candle corresponding to the principle of the day is lit. On the first evening the family lights the black center candle for unity. On the second day of Kwanzaa the family again lights the black candle for unity and the red candle for Kujichagulia (self- determination). On the third evening, the black and red candles are relit and the green candle for Ujima (collective work and responsibility) is lit. This practice of lighting the candles for the principle of the day beginning with the black candle and alternating from left to right, red to green continues throughout the seven days of Kwanzaa until the last candle has been lit on the last day of Kwanzaa. While the candle is lit the principle of the day is discussed. Everyone explains what the Nguzo Saba principle of that day means to them and how they have practiced it during the day. After the discussion, a commitment is made by each and all to practice and promote the particular principle throughout the year. To close out, seven "Harambee" (Swahili for "Let's all pull together") are called out. Also various other activities are organized to practice and promote the principle of the day. These include working together on projects, studying and learning more on African culture, sharing narratives and other literature, poems, dance and drama; and making Kwanzaa items as symbols and/or gifts. All of these are to celebrate the holiday and reaffirm and reinforce family, community and culture.
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