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Nguzo Saba (7 Principles of Kwanzaa)
Umoja (00-MOE-JAH) (Unity)
The first principle is a commitment to the idea of
togetherness. This principle is a foundation; for without unity, neither
the family nor the community can survive. National African-American unity
begins with the family.
Kujichagulia (COO-GEE-CHA-GOO-LEE-AH) (Self-determination)
The second principle is a commitment to building our lives in
our own images and interests. We must define ourselves, name ourselves,
create for ourselves and speak for ourselves instead of being defined,
named, created and spoken for by others.
Ujima (00-GEE-MA) (Collective Work and
Responsibility)
The third principle relates to the common good of the
family/community. Without collective work and struggle, progress is
impossible.
Ujamaa (00-JAH-MAH) (Cooperative
Economics)
The fourth principle of Kwanzaa is fundamental to concept of
cooperative living in a community or family, wealth and resources should be
shared.
Nia (NEE-AH) (Purpose)
The fifth day of Kwanzaa is a day for reviewing our purpose
for living. To make our collective vocation the building and developing of
our community and to restore our people to our traditional
greatness.
Kuumba (KOO-M-BAH) (Creativity)
The sixth principle of the Nguzo Saba relates to building and
developing our creative potential. It involves both aesthetic and material
creations.
Imani (E-MAH-NE) (Faith)
The seventh principle is belief in ourselves as individuals
and as a people. Without Imani (faith), there is no possibility of victory.
Willie
Jones, President
Dorothy
Stewart, Founder
Women for
Progress MS
www.womenforprogress.net
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