Kwanzaa:
Soul Food Celebration
Kwanzaa, celebrated
by some African Americans, is a holiday which has gained in popularity in recent
years. It came out of the ‘60s cultural revolution that set off an interest
in African history, music, art and a growing sense of black consciousness.
Kwanzaa, which means "first fruits of the harvest," is celebrated for seven days from December 26 through January 1. It is a cultural, rather than religious, holiday. Each day is celebrated, generally by a gathering of family and friends. Participants discuss and commit to seven guiding principles, one each day. A candle is lighted each day. The first day starts with a black candle–it represents African American people in unity. The next six days alternate between lighting a red candle, representing struggle, and a green candle, representing a "green future." A feast is held on December 31 for sharing, remembering, reassessing and rejoicing. ~Bev Whitfield and Kathleen Wilson
Traditional
Kwanzaa feast
Fried
Okra Chicken
& Sausage Gumbo with Rice
• Collard
Greens Coconut
Biscuits
• Classic
Cornbread
• Down
Home Sweet Potato Pie
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