In 1966, the idea of Kwanzaa was founded by Maulana Karenga, PhD, during the civil rights era, as a means to celebrate African heritage. It encourages African American families to look forward to the future, with hope and determination.
This weeklong celebration begins the day after Christmas and runs through New Year's Day. Seven principles of African heritage, called the Nguzo Saba, are celebrated by some families in the United States. According to research by Public Policy Polling, just 4 percent of Americans celebrated Kwanzaa in 2012. It remains to be seen if Kwanzaa 2020 will see those numbers increase, given the significant trials and tribulations that the Black community has faced this year. In the meantime, consider these 8 ideas to celebrate Kwanzaa in 2020.
The principles of Kwanzaa
Kwanzaa crafts and activities for kids
Involving children in the celebration of Kwanzaa is a great way to create lasting memories. It builds family traditions that will last for years to come. With so much to see and do during the weeklong festivities, celebrating Kwanzaa is the perfect way to ring in the new year.
7. Creativity or kuumba is the sixth principle of Kwanzaa, and what better way to get creative than crafting with kids.
Activity Village has fun Kwanzaa crafts for preschoolers like this handprint kinara or this corn on the cob bubble wrap activity.
8. Read Kwanzaa picture books and include activities to help kids learn more about this special weeklong celebration.
Whether your family celebrates Kwanzaa or not, having diverse bookshelves is imperative to raising inclusive children. This year, in our home we've created a picture book Advent calendar that includes books that celebrate religions and cultures different from our own. We've also hidden winter-holiday-themed rocks around our neighborhood.
Add some diversity to your holiday season by sharing these Kwanzaa books with your children:
Together for Kwanzaa by Juwanda G. Ford — A little girl discovers that despite not having the perfect Kwanzaa celebration at first, she's still able to recognize the Kwanzaa tradition and principles to make it a special time for her family.
The Story of Kwanzaa by Donna L. Washington — This book explains the Nguzo Saba; seven principles of Kwanzaa to children on a first through fifth grade level._ _
Now more than ever, Kwanzaa in 2020 will have special meaning to help bring the African American community together in a year that has been full of hardship for so many.
