“We have reached the final two Black Owned Businesses in Black Economic Exchange Group’s Favorite Things, which features 12 Black Owned Businesses that we recommend shopping from not only during the holidays, but throughout the year! The following gift idea allows you to celebrate for 7 days with great significance. Each day focuses on a principle that imparts wisdom, empowerment, and nourishment to your soul! If you haven’t already guessed, Kwanzaa follows right after Christmas. Whether you have never celebrated Kwanzaa before or are interested please check this black owned business”
“Kwanzaa Starter Kit”
Black Economic Exchange Group
The Kwanzaa Me starter kit serves as a comprehensive manual for comprehending and commemorating Kwanzaa. Lawrielle West, the founder of Kwanzaa Me, has a mission to equip black families with the necessary knowledge and resources to honor their heritage.
In 1966, Black activists, academics, and community leaders established Kwanzaa in California as a holiday specifically for African-Americans to celebrate our communal culture and values. The term “Kwanzaa” itself translates to “first fruit of the harvest.” Its seven principles consist of Umoja (unity), Kudachakaliya (self-determination), Ujima (collective work and responsibility), Ujamaa (co-op economics), Imani (faith), Nia (purpose), and Kuumba (creativity).
Kwanzaa Me is engaged in the creation of a knowledge base and provision of tools for African families, as well as individuals from all backgrounds who are interested in learning more about this influential holiday. In addition to this, Kwanzaa Me serves as the engagement director for the Motor City Kwanzaa Kinara, which has formed a partnership with Alkebu-lan Village to promote the tradition of Kwanzaa across Detroit through their innovative 57 Families Initiative.
The 57 Family Initiative represents the most recent endeavor undertaken by West and her collaborators to enhance the recognition of Kwanzaa. Its objective is to provide Kwanzaa Kits to 57 families in Michigan, while also educating them about the meaning and customs associated with this week-long celebration. To acquire your starter kit, please visit https://www.kwanzaame.com. Furthermore, if you happen to know a family or are part of a family that would like to receive a kit or donate to this remarkable initiative, kindly reach out via email at MotorCityKanarra@gmail.com.
(Photos from https://www.kwanzaame.com/)