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Gift Suggestions For Kwanzaa Kwanzaa means "First Fruits" in Swahili, an African language. It was established in 1966 by Dr. Maulna Karenga, professor and chair of Black Studies at Cal State Long Beach (California) to help black Americans take pride in their African roots. The holiday, which reaffirms the ties between African Americans and their ancestral home in Africa, lasts seven days — from Dec. 26 to Jan. 1. Each day represents one of the seven guiding principles of Nguzo Saba: Unity, Self Determination, Collective Work and Responsibility, Cooperation and Support, Self-Examination and Setting Goals, Creativity, and Honoring Tradition. Each evening, family members light a candle and talk about that day’s principles. On the sixth day, Dec. 31, the community gathers for a feast called a karamu, at which they eat African foods, talk about their ancestors and discuss their goals for the coming year. There is also music and dancing. Gifts are usually exchanged on Jan. 1, the day the seventh candle is lit. Families are encouraged to give each other gifts that they have made themselves: These can range from original works of art and sculpture to straw place mats. If one wants to buy a gift, it should be affordable and represent some aspect of African culture. For example: •African carvings, jewelry or artifacts are welcome, as are gifts of fruits or vegetables, which represent the blessings of Mother Earth for her children. •Educational gifts are encouraged, especially books on African history, folklore and culture, as well as books by African and African American writers. •Especially welcome are books on Kwanzaa, such as "Kwanzaa: The Seven Principles" by Rod Terry, et al, and "Kwanzaa Crafts, Gifts & Decorations for a Meaningful & Festive Celebration" by Marcia Odle McNair. •An especially fine book for children under the age of 10 is "Let’s Celebrate Kwanzaa" by Helen Davis-Thompson. This is an activity book that helps youngsters understand the seven principles of Kwanzaa. The book also has a Kwanzaa song, word games and holiday activities. It’s available at most bookstores or online at www.Amazon.com. •For a comprehensive reference on foods, recipes, Afrocentric hairstyles, fashions and more, there’s "Kwanzaa: Everything You Always Wanted To Know But Didn’t Know Where To Ask" by Cedric McClester. •Finally, when you wrap your gifts, tie them up with black, red and green ribbons — the colors of Kwanzaa. ©2001 King Features Synd., Inc.
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