Kwanzaa is a time for reflection, purpose, and introspection. Created in 1966 by Maulana Karenga, it was borne out of the necessity for community and communion - to give black people an opportunity to celebrate themselves and their history as an alternative to the standard Christmas holiday. Beginning on December 26th and ending on the seventh day of January 1st, the name Kwanzaa derives from the Swahili matunda ya kwanza, meaning "first fruits".
Today is Day 3 of Kwanzaa - Ujima - which means collective work and responsibility. “To build and maintain our community together and make our community's problems our problems and to solve them together.” (National Museum of African American History and Culture).
How do you plan to build and maintain your community? Let me know in the comments below!