Kwanzaa: Origins & Meanings of Nguzo Saba symbols

Khamisi January 3, 2021

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The seven principles of Kwanzaa, or Nguzo Saba, together comprise the Kawaida or “common” philosophy, a synthesis of nationalist, pan-African, and socialist values.

Dagi Knot: Unity; A Pan-African symbol of unity found in several African cultures.
Ahenwa: The Akan throne, symbol of national identity, cultural groundedness and rightful governance, used in Kwanzaa to represent the principle of Kujichagulia (Self-Determination).
Akoma Ntoaso: Understanding, Agreement; The Adinkra symbol of shared effort and obligation. Akoma Ntoaso is used in Kwanzaa to represent the principle Ujima (Cooperative Work & Responsibility).
Two Interlocking Half Circles: Love or Unity; The Nsibidi symbol of togetherness and family is used to represent the Kwanzaa principal Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics).
Nefer: Good, Pleasant, Beautiful; The ancient Egyptian symbol for beauty and good is used to represent the Kwanzaa principal Nia (Purpose).
The Seven Vibrations of Divine Creation: Creativity; The Dogon symbol of creativity, used to represent the Kwanzaa principle Kuumba (Creativity).
Ankh: Key of Life, Life; The ancient Egyptian double symbol of the ankh, used to represent the Kwanzaa principal Imani (Faith).

Categories: Culture

Tags: Folklore & Folktales

Adinkra Symbols

Adinkra symbols are originated and designed through the handiwork and tireless effort of Gyaman hene Nana Kwadwo Agyemang Adinkra of Gyaman people who originated from the Akan, Bono people of modern-day Ghana and the Ivory Coast.

Khamisi June 12, 2020

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Afrikan Proverbs

Over 100 proverbs from Afrikan ethnic groups ranging from the once mighty Zulu of Southern Afrika to the Mandinka people of West Afrika.

Khamisi June 12, 2020

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“What to the Slave is the Fourth of July” by Frederick Douglass

On July 5, 1852, Frederick Douglass was invited to address the citizens of his hometown, Rochester, New York. Whatever the expectations of his audience on that 76th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Douglass used the occasion not to celebrate the nation’s triumphs but to remind all of its continuing enslavement of millions of people.

Khamisi July 5, 2020

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“Where Do We Go From Here” by Martin L. King, Jr.

August 16, 1967, Martin Luther King, Jr. spoke about the achievements of the American Negro, his struggles, triumphs, and place in the then American society and economy; he lays out his thoughts, plans, and dreams for America’s future, including the need for better jobs, higher wages, decent housing, and quality education.

Khamisi August 11, 2024

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