Habari Gani!
If you’ve never celebrated Kwanzaa before, that’s a Swahili phrase that means “What’s the news?” or “What’s happening?” During Kwanzaa, it is a traditional greeting exchanged each day. When someone says “Habari Gani?” the response is the name of the principle for that day. It serves as a way to focus the day’s discussions and activities around that particular principle.
With Christmas behind us and New Year’s on the way, The Tri-State Defender is here to celebrate Kwanzaa with you — and to help you celebrate with others!
Over the next seven days of Kwanzaa, we’ll bring you the Nguzo Saba principle of the day — what the word means, why it’s important and some thoughts to meditate upon during this season of celebrating harvests and commemorating ancestors.
We’ll also provide you a non-comprehensive list of Kwanzaa events in the city, in case you want to put on your dashiki and go celebrate with others. I
And even if you don’t attend a Kwanzaa event in Memphis, take just a few minutes to focus your mind and energy on these principles, and talk about them with others in your life. They’re the kinds of principles that can help heal a city and bring us together!
Celebrating Umoja (Unity)
Kwanzaa begins with Umoja, the Swahili word for Unity, a principle that reminds us of the strength we derive from standing together as a community. This day encourages us to focus on the bonds of family, friendship, and community that empower us to face challenges and celebrate triumphs. Umoja calls us to maintain harmony within our circles and seek common ground even amidst differences.
The founder of Kwanzaa, Dr. Maulana Karenga, emphasized the importance of Umoja, stating, “Unity is the foundation for all our efforts. Without it, progress is difficult, if not impossible.” This principle serves as a guide to cultivating relationships that build and sustain a thriving community.
Reflections
As we light the black candle on the kinara, representing the people across the African Diaspora, let’s reflect on how we can strengthen our relationships and contribute to a collective spirit of togetherness. Umoja is a call to action—a reminder that true unity requires ongoing effort, empathy, and shared purpose.
Today, take a moment to strengthen a relationship, reach out to someone you’ve drifted away from, or participate in a community activity that brings people together. Unity begins with each of us.
Let’s celebrate Umoja today and every day by living in harmony with one another. Together, we thrive.
Ancestor’s Quote of the Day:
“We are more alike, my friends, than we are unalike.” — Maya Angelou
Events in Memphis Today
If you’re in Memphis, join the Bluff City Kwanzaa Umoja Celebration:
• When: Thursday, December 26, 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM
• Where: Bridges USA, 477 N. 5th Street, Memphis, TN
• What: The celebration includes kinara lighting, speakers, music, vendors, and activities to honor the spirit of unity. Families are encouraged to attend this free event.
