Sue Ellen's Scrapbook
1 of 8 pages

Kwanzaa
Kwanzaa is a time for African- Americans to think about their culture, history and community. The Brain starts getting ready for Kwanzaa a couple of weeks early by decorating the house with Kwanzaa colors and African-American art.

Kwanzaa
The Brain celebrates Kwanzaa from December 26 through January 1. A teacher named Dr. Maulana Karenga created Kwanzaa in 1966. Kwanzaa means "first fruits" in Swahili.

Kwanzaa
The Brain places a bunch of things that are symbolic of Kwanzaa on a special mat called a "mkeka." On top is a special candleholder called a "kinara." The kinara holds seven candles called "mishumaa saba."

Kwanzaa
The Brain scooped a bowl of ice cream with the colors red, black and green. These are the colors of Kwanzaa. Red symbolizes the struggle for freedom. Black is for the black people. Green symbolizes the future.

Kwanzaa
The Brain told me all about the seven important principles of Kwanzaa -- one for each day of the celebration. They honor the history and community of African-Americans.