Kwanzaa through a Queer Christian Lens
Avi Grace Jae’El
Day 1: An Introduction to Kwanza
Kwanzaa comes from a Swahili phrase meaning “first fruits.” The Kwanzaa holiday was created by Dr. Maulana Karenga in the United States in 1966 and is celebrated each year from December 26th to January 1st; however, African peoples have been celebrating “First Fruits” for generations. The Kwanzaa celebration is a time of Reverence to the Creator and the Creation, a time for reflection on the past and recommittal to cultural ideals, and a time for celebrating the good in life.
Those allied with the African-American community are encouraged to participate in Kwanzaa celebrations and say “Joyous Kwanzaa” in celebration.
The standard greeting during Kwanzaa is the Swahili phrase Habari Gani — meaning “what’s the news?” Whenever someone says “Habari Gani,” the community responds with the Nguzo Saba (Kwanzaa principle) for that day. There are seven Nguzo Saba: Umoja, Kujichagulia, Ujima, Ujamaa, Nia, Kuumba, and Imani.
An example greeting would be:
Greeter on December 26th says: “Habari Gani”
The community replies: “Umoja”
Through the Nguzo Saba, as well as Scriptural reflections and personal anecdotes, this devotional will guide you through a re-imagined celebration of Kwanzaa. We will stay true to the core themes of the Kwanzaa celebration — including prayer, thanksgiving, and commitment to cultural and community development — while also providing space for inclusion of all who wish to participate in a Joyous Kwanzaa.
Avi Grace Jae’El (she/they)
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