Kwanzaa Week Begins in V.I. With Focus on Culture, Unity

Kwanzaa is observed each year from Dec. 26 through Jan. 1 as a week-long cultural celebration honoring African heritage, community, and shared values.

The observance centers on the Nguzo Saba, seven principles that emphasize unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith, with one principle highlighted each day.

In the Virgin Islands, Kwanzaa has been celebrated for more than four decades, with community groups, families, and individuals continuing the tradition through annual observances and activities.

The Seven Principles of Kwanzaa (Nguzo Saba)

Dec. 26 – Umoja (Unity): Striving for and maintaining unity in the family, community, nation, and race.

Dec. 27 – Kujichagulia (Self-Determination): Defining, naming, creating, and speaking for ourselves.

Dec. 28 – Ujima (Collective Work & Responsibility): Building and maintaining community together and solving problems collectively.

Dec. 29 – Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics): Supporting and building our own businesses and shared economic strength.

Dec. 30 – Nia (Purpose): Committing to the collective vocation of uplifting our people.

Dec. 31 – Kuumba (Creativity): Using creativity to leave our community more beautiful and beneficial than we inherited it.

Jan. 1 – Imani (Faith): Believing in our people, parents, teachers, leaders, and the righteousness of our struggle.

Schedule of Events (flyers available on www.kwanzaa365.com)

Friday, Dec. 26 | 1:00–3:00 p.m.

Habari Gani? Community Celebration

Wheatley Center #2, St. Thomas

Storytelling, music, education, free refreshments, and family-friendly.

Friday, Dec. 26 | 4:00–8:00 p.m.

Create the Future – Umoja Community Conversation

Polly’s at the Pier Café, Frederiksted, St. Croix

Potluck and discussion on community wealth and development.

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