In the mid-'60s, Dr. Maulana Karenga created Kwanzaa, an observance that honors African heritage in African-American and Pan-African cultures. he holiday's name comes from a phrase in the Swahili language -  "matunda ya kwanza," which means "first fruits."

From Dec. 26 to Jan. 1, these days are dedicated to the seven principles - Nguzo Saba - focusing on African philosophy that encompasses the mutual and interactive relationship with family, community, environment and the world. 

Umoja (ooh-MOE-jah) means Unity, and it is the principle for the first day of Kwanzaa. Our families and communities need unity in order for them to be productive and to survive. 

On this day, we pledge to strive for -- and to maintain -- unity in the family, in the community, in the nation that we have helped to build, and with our people.  

We invite you to consider with us the the principles of Nguzo Saba over the next seven days.  These principles represent values that can strengthen our lives, our families, and our communities, whether you celebrate Kwanzaa or not.  For me, this celebration introduces timeless principles rooted in our African heritage that provide an anchor for our sojourn in the global society.  If you are a baby boomer or a member of the  millennial generation, consider these principles as you prepare for 2013 and the years to come.  

THE FIRST DAY OF KWANZAA

UMOJA
Umoja (ooh-MOE-jah) means Unity, and it is the principle for the first day of Kwanzaa. Our families and communities need unity in order for them to be productive and to survive. On this day, we pledge to strive for -- and to maintain -- unity in the family, in the community, in the nation that we have helped to build, and with our PEOPLE.

HAPPY KWANZAA!

Roger Madison

iZania, LLC