Kwanzakkah

Kwanzaa and Hanukkah celebrations are an opportunity for us to reconnect with our community and remember the miracles of light, love and hope. As we reflect on miracles, we also affirm the power we play in the dynamic energies of the universe. We accept our grandeur and work together to repair our community, nation and the world.

Spirit and Aura

Cleanse yourself on the first day of Hanukkah and the last day of Kwanzaa. I suggest a Yoruba cleansing that purposefully focuses on clearing energy on the first day of Hanukkah and submerging into the mikvah on the last day of the secular new year.  As you partake in the traditions of Kwanzaa and Hanukkah, also consider the meditations of your heart.

The following meditations will reconnect you to the energy of the earth and the spirit of your being. The reflections will also provide you with affirming beliefs that will remind you of “home.” A place of acceptance, peace, joy and unconditional love.

Day One: Umoja (Unity)

I am the universe and I hold within me the power to bind the moon, stars and the sun to the sky. I am the makidada of the galaxy. I connect the planets because I am the force that inspires them to orbit. I am the light that gives hope to the night and warmth to the day. I am the power that gives birth to generations and connects our heritage in one community. We are in community as one family. We are in community as one people. We are in community as a unified human race that bonds together in one love emanating a powerful light.

Day Two: Kujichagulia (Self-Determination)

I have my own voice and will not allow anyone to speak for me. I have found freedom in my being and liberation in my self love. No one can represent me… because I am like no other being in this universe. No one has walked my walk and therefore, cannot talk my talk. I am determined to be the greatest person I can be and use my own voice without fear and intimidation. I am self-empowered to accept myself and love all of me. I am self-determined to share my voice and speak my truth with morality, audaciousness and courage.

Day Three: Ujima (Collective Work & Responsibility)

The colorful candles melt under the flames and they blend into one. Together they create a beautiful mixture with each color clearly defined, yet they all bond to create the flame that brings light into the world. Just as this candle has its purpose, so do we. We must understand that what impacts one, impacts us all. If one fails, we all fail. If one suffers, we all suffer, and if one succeeds, we all succeed. We must collectively do what we can to ensure everyone is cared for and everyone thrives. We have the power and responsibility to authentically BE the difference we need in our community, nation and around the globe.

Day Four: Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics)

We support one another and understand that the power we have is related to our authentic care for one another. We must invest in one another and help one another, but more important than money, we must do what we can to invest in the emotional, social, and spiritual well-being of our sisters and brothers. We must contribute to the education, equity and upliftment of our community to ensure that we all benefit from the talents, gifts and wisdom of everyone young and old.

Day Five: Nia (Purpose)

I embody the extraordinary. I am excellent in all things and believe that being bold and free is the key to experiencing joyfulness. I do everything with purpose and grit. There is nothing I cannot do because I come from a people who have persevered through treacherous times. I come from strong warriors and thus I am a modern-day fighter. I fight for tzedakah (justice) and ahava (love). I celebrate my heritage and claim my throne. I am a regal being that brings forth the light of the galaxies… I am the glory in the essence of the universe. I live a purposeful life shining light wherever I go.

Day Six: Kuumba (Creativity)

Innovation requires courage and confidence. It may even demand for one to be tenacious. So, I will always challenge myself to be audaciously creative. I dare to take actions and be morally courageous to make my community, nation and world great. I will use my creative genius to purposefully add value to my community and evolve to ensure our infinite survival.

Day Seven: Imani (Faith)

I believe in myself. I have faith in the miracle of redemption, restoration and revelations. I know that miracles have sustained us and will continue to light our path. We have endured slavery, wars, persecution and hate. We will continue to collaboratively connect and work as a team to ensure healing and peace. During the bleak moments when we can’t see, we will believe that the light we embody within us will glow like the brightest moon… powerful and purposefully.

Final day: Ometz Lev ?? ??? / Ujasiri (Heart)

The miracle of light is like freedom to love

it is like an eagle that soars liberated from a cage

and flying above

the mountains and streams

peering below she sees

the landscape

and dreams.

She leads the flock

and the light she beams

onto the seas

moves souls

it captures the essential energy

and throws it up

into the sky

and sparkles so many lights

twinkling in the beautiful darkness

and reminding us all

of community, miracles, love and resilient hope.

?? Kwanzakkah, a new intersectional celebration (Hanukkah & Kwanzaa) is celebrated on the first of Tevet (the eighth day of Hanukkah). ??

Download the full Kwanzakkah guide below, republished with permission from the group Black Yids Matter: Kwanzakkah1.pdf

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