Ujima Day (Collective Work and Responsibility)

Ujima Principle- “To build and maintain our community tougher and make our brothers and sisters’ problems and solve them together.”

On Ujima Day, the family organises an activity around supporting each other and the community. On this day the family discusses how they have been supportive of each other and how they will be supportive of each other in the future.

The Ujima principle is the ultimate expression of the African proverb: “I am because we are, and because we are, I am.” We are all responsible for our successes and our shortcomings, the raising of our children, and the guidance and mentoring of our youth.

On Ujima Day, the family comes together to show how the family will be supportive of each other.

On Ujima Day, we give thanks and remembrance to family, friends, and historical figures who have contributed to their lives and the betterment of America.

On this day of Kwanzaa, the family lights the green candle, which is symbolic of the benefits, rewards, and achievements resulting from work and continuous effort (struggle).

During the candle lighting ceremony, each family member pledges to support each other and work to help solve community issues- low educational performance, youth involvement in antisocial activities.

The family enjoys a special holiday meal of their choice. There is no set or mandated meal for Kwanzaa. Enjoy your meal. (Kwanzaa Guide)