Happy Kwanzaa!
Kwanzaa is an African American celebration of life from December 26 to January 1. The celebration culminates in a communal feast called Karamu, usually on the sixth day. It was created by activist Maulana Karenga, based on African harvest festival traditions from various parts of West and Southeast Africa.
The Kwanzaa holiday honors the Nguzo Saba, or Seven Principles, of African culture. These are Umoja (unity), Kujichagulia (self-determination), Ujima (collective work and responsibility), Ujamaa (cooperative economics), Nia (purpose), Kuumba (creativity) and Imani (faith). It’s a fantastic time for reflection, goal setting, and family.
Last year, S:US’ Chief Program Officer Dr. Nadjete Natchaba wrote an article explaining how S:US uses the seven principles of Afrocentricity to frame our services and right societal imbalances by providing comprehensive and culturally responsive programming. As service providers, we are responsible for finding effective ways to take care of BIPOC people who are living with different abilities (who account for more than 90% of the people we serve).