MEMPHIS, TN (abc24.com) - Dr. Kai Naataanbuu with Memphis Kwanzaa International says the seven day celebration is essential. "Without culture we will not survive as a people," she said.
It's the concern about the survival of African-American boys that Dr. Kaia said prompted Memphis Kwanzaa International to makes this year's theme the year of the father.
"We need our father's in the home to set examples for our male children. That will eliminate the violence they displace, particularly gang violence," she said. "If we had the father at home, the community, the city would thrive. It would eliminate problems we have today."
Kwanzaa celebrates a different principle each day:
- Monday-Umoja (Unity)
- Tuesday-Kujichagulia (Self-Determination)
- Wednesday-Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility)
- Thursday-Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics)
- Friday-Nia (Purpose)
- Saturday-Kuumba (Creativity)
- Sunday-Imani (Faith)
Kwanzaa is celebrated December 26-January 1st.
