On December 31st, the sixth day of Kwanzaa, a joyous celebration called a Karamu (kah-RAH-moo) is held, with food, drink, dance, music and gift giving with family and friends. It is a time of reassessment and recommitment to the seven principles of Kwanzaa. As is traditional each night, participants greet each other with Habari gani (Ha-ba-ri ga-ni) or What is the news with you?
On day six, celebrants reflect on the principle of Kuumba (koo-OOM-bah), which means creativity. The goal of Kuumba (koo-OOM-bah) is to do everything possible to make a difference and leave the community in better condition than what was inherited. The principle implies a daily investment in the future, or a donation to eternity.
As the sixth candle is lit, we remember that each night’s candle lighting is significant. The black candle represents the people, the three red candles represent the struggle they have endured, and the three green candles represent the hope that comes from the struggle. At the end of each night’s celebration Harambee! (hah-RAHM-beh) is called out, meaning “Let’s pull together!”
WXXI celebrates Kwanzaa and the principles that reflect and recommit to the collective achievement of a better life for our families, community and our people.