WISCONSIN— The seven-day celebration of Kwanzaa kicks off today, Dec. 26 and will run through the new year, Jan. 1.
The holiday celebrates family, culture and community. It was founded in 1966 by a professor of African studies. Each day of Kwanzaa focuses on seven principles: Unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith.
Children receive gifts over these seven days. Two gifts, that are always given, include a book about their heritage and another item representing African culture.
Zakiya Courtney has been celebrating Kwanzaa with her family for the last four decades. The former educator has now passed the tradition down to her six children, 52 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren.
“That’s the most important thing that you can leave to your family is a legacy and spirituality,” Zakiya said.
She has been holding community Kwanzaa celebrations in Milwaukee for decades as well, as a long-time volunteer and board member for the Wisconsin African American Women’s Center.
“One year, we went to North Division High School and in the midst of a snowstorm, we had over 2,500 people,” she said. “It was absolutely amazing.”
Zakiya knows everything about Kwanzaa, from the traditional table setting to the food eaten.
“We know our roots are in West Africa, so we’ve cooked a lot of foods that come from there,” Zakiya said. “Peanut stew is a popular one and oxtail stew, which is made with mushrooms, celery, and carrots in a rich gravy.”
There is no one traditional food for Kwanzaa, Zakiya said. Instead, families create their own traditions.
“It’s important to know, understand and learn about other traditions,” she said. “The more you know, the more you can find what we have in common.”
The holiday includes singing, dancing, African drumming and a great sense of togetherness. Zakiya said because of COVID, this year’s celebration is limited to immediate family. Extended family will be able to Zoom in.