The main symbols of Kwanzaa are a mat,
on which to put the things needed for the celebration, the unity cup used to
pour libations, a candle stick holding seven candles, the seven candles, ears
of corn, the Kwanzaa flag and a poster depicting the seven principles of Kwanzaa.
The seven principles of Kwanzaa are: unity; self-determination; collective work
and responsibility; co-operative economics; purpose; creativity; and earth.
The colors of Kwanzaa are red, black
and green. The Kwanzaa flag consists of three blocks, one in each of these colors.
Three of the seven candles are red, three are green and one is black. Each candle
represents one of the principles of Kwanzaa. The candle holder is carved from
a single piece of wood and its shape was inspired by the form of the Ashanti
royal throne.
Here's a concrete list of the symbols
of Kwanzaa:
Mazao: (The Crops) These
are symbolic of African harvest celebrations and of the rewards of productive
and collective labor.
Mkeka: (The Mat) This
is symbolic of our tradition and history and therefore, the foundation on which
we build.
Kinara: (The Candle
Holder) The Kwanzaa candles and harvest This is symbolic of our roots, our parent
people -- continental Africans.
Muhindi: (The Corn)
This is symbolic of our children and our future which they embody.
Mishumaa Saba: (The
Seven Candles) These are symbolic of the Nguzo Saba, the Seven Principles, the
matrix and minimum set of values which African people are urged to live by in
order to rescue and reconstruct their lives in their own image and according
to their own needs.
Kikombe cha Umoja: (The
Unity Cup) This is symbolic of the foundational principle and practice of unity
which makes all else possible.
Zawadi: (The Gifts)
These are symbolic of the labor and love of parents and the commitments made
and kept by the children.
