Responses to Common Questions About Kwanzaa

     As we engage in analysis of  the impact of Kwanzaa on the African-American experience, a number of questions are raised. Newcomers and those of us who have been celebrating the holiday and embracing the Nguzo Saba for decades all have questions. The concerns differ in context and perspective depending upon the level of familiarity with the tradition. This article addresses some of the most common questions asked by neophytes.

     Is Kwanzaa an African holiday? While the ideas for Kwanzaa are based on traditional harvest festivals or celebrations held in many African countries, historically there is no specific holiday called Kwanzaa on the continent. The idea of a "first fruit" harvest for African-Americans has to do with the celebration of accomplishments and achievements of goals for the year, and spreading the seeds of aspirations that will be developed in the coming year.

     Is Kwanzaa a religious holiday? It is not based on any particular religion and is celebrated by people of various faiths. In the spirit of unity, the principles allow practioners to embrace each regardless of religious doctrine.

     Is Kwanzaa meant to replace Christmas? While many people embrace Kwanzaa and reject the materialism associated with Christmas, Kwanzaa is not meant to replace Christmas. Is is up to individuals and families to determine if one or both holidays fulfills their needs.

     What language is used for the principles and symbolf of Kwanzaa? Kiswahili, spoken in East and Central Africa, is the language associated with Kwanzaa. African-Americans who have embraced "the culture" and made a decision to lead African-centered lives, have incorporated study of African languages. Some people have traced their roots to a particular part of Africa and chosen the language and culture of those areas, but many of us have simply chosen the languages and cultures that we want to learn. Among the most popular languages are Woloof (West Africa), Yoruba (Nigeria), and Kiswahili, and Nedew Neter, also known as Hieroglyphics (ancient Kemet/Egypt). 

     Why do we need such a tradition? Do we have the right to establish a holiday? Those two questions have to do with the political, social and spiritual ramifications of Kwanzaa. Kwanzaa is needed because it serves as a link to our roots and heritage, while providing a foundation for strengthening our families, institutions, communities and ourselves as individuals and as a nation of people. All people have a need and a right to strive for continued growth and progress through the creation of culture. As an African people, it is important for us to reach back and embrace our ancestry; but as a people who have been forged by both our African roots and our experiences in America, we have developed a culture that is an expression of both, out of which Kwanzaa has been shaped.