I have heard of Kwanzaa like any other child. When I asked an adult what Kwanzaa is when I was little, she just said, "It's a holiday that African Americans celebrate." I didn't give much thought to it since then. But recently I became more curious about holidays that are not Christmas or a Hallmark holiday. So I looked up Kwanzaa to know more about it.

I think college students should be aware of all kinds ofholidays. Since colleges are so diverse, it is important we know about holidays that a classmate or professor might celebrate. Perhaps, like me, you do not know a lot about Kwanzaa either. So this is what my research provided:

What does the word "Kwanzaa" even mean? It's derived from the Swahili phrase "matunda ya kwanza" which means "first fruits." It's not affiliated with a major religion and is more cultural. It originated in the 1960's, the period of the Civil Rights Movement, to instill racial pride and unity in the African American community. So it is relatively young.

What I found really interesting is that there are 7 principles, called Nguzo Saba. They are:

1. Unity (Umoja)

2. Self-determination (Kujichagulia)

3. Collective Work and Responsibility (Ujima)

4. Purpose (Nia)

5. Creativity (Kuumba)

6. Faith (Imani)

7. Collective Economics (Ujamaa)

Kwanzaa is celebrated for 7 days, each day representing one of the 7 Principles. On each night, the family gathers, lights one of the candles on the Kinara (candleholder) and then discusses one of the principles. A straw mat called a mkeka rests on the table covered by kente cloth, African fabric. The kinara sits on top of the mkeka and the seven candles are called the mishumaa saba. Crops, called mazao, and the kikombe cha umoja, or unity cup, also rest on top of the mkeka. The unity cup is used to pour tambiko, or libation, in remembrance of a family's ancestors. African art objects and books also sit on the mat to symbolize African heritage and learning.

Although it celebrates African roots and culture, not everyone celebrates Kwanzaa. The National Retail Foundation found that only 13% of African Americans observe the holiday and some purposely avoid the holiday due to religious beliefs. So if you just considered getting someone you know a Kwanzaa card, ask first if they celebrate the holiday.

There is more information on Kwanzaa but I have provided the general details.