Kwanzaa promotes 7 principles of behavior

By LINDA M. LINONIS

linonis@vindy.com

Youngstown

The Rev. Dr. Lewis Macklin emphasized that Kwanzaa “is not a black version of Christmas.”

Christmas, remembering the birth of Christ, is for all Christians, while Kwanzaa is an Afro-centric activity.

Kwanzaa, observed Dec. 26 to Jan. 1, is a climax to the end of the year. The Emancipation Proclamation, a document of Jan. 1, 1863, freed slaves in the Confederate States of America. Some black churches continue the tradition of Watch Night services on New Year’s Eve to recall the event.

The seven principles addressed by Kwanzaa, the Rev. Mr. Macklin said, will hopefully lay the foundation of behavior and purpose in the new year.

At a special service at 5 p.m. Sunday at Holy Trinity Missionary Baptist Church, where Mr. Macklin is pastor, seven Valley ministers will each speak on a principle of Kwanzaa. He said he hopes those attending “embrace” the principles and are “emboldened and equipped with understanding.”

Mr. Macklin offered a preview of the program that will link the Kwanzaa principles to passages from the Bible with a similar idea.

Umoga is unity. “That’s the community coming together and feeling a responsibility to one another,” he said.

Kujichagulia is self-determination. “This is about defining yourself and your own goals,” he said. “Create your own destiny.”

Ujima is for collective work and responsibility. “Obstacles are opportunities for advancement,” said Mr. Macklin. Those in the black community are asked to “reaffirm the values of generosity and cooperation.” “Our destiny is in our hands,” he said.

Ujamaa is cooperative economics. “It’s important that the black community support black-owned businesses and endeavors,” he urged.

Nia is purpose. “Some don’t know or understand their purpose,” Mr. Macklin said. The principle focuses on black heritage and transferring the same enthusiasm and dedication to future generations. “Our ancestors hoped for a better day, a better way,” Mr. Macklin said.

Kuumba is creativity. “Stir up the gifts you have and share them in the community,” Mr. Macklin suggested. It takes talent and imagination to make something happen, he said.

Imani is for faith. “Faith is the foundation on which we stand,” Mr. Macklin said.

The pastor said it is hoped people take the principles to heart and employ them “to build a community.”