The meaning of Kwanzaa

Rivero, Marita · December 19, 1974

An excerpt from a program that focuses on the meaning and celebration of Kwanzaa. Through interviews conducted by children discovering the meaning of Kwanzaa and an in-studio ceremony, Say Brother examines, with the help of Brother Imara, Kwanzaa's ceremonial elements (straw mat, candle holder, candles), the seven principles celebrated during Kwanzaa (unity, self determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith), the "first fruits," the difference between Kwanzaa and Christmas, and the meaning of the unity cup and the ears of corn placed on the ceremonial table. The second half of the program contains a mime performance by Halim Adbur Rashid (Fred Johnson), "Access" (with Jackie W. Cooper, Director of the Roxbury Alcoholic Intervention Center on what the Center does), an in-studio performance by the Helen Hollins Singers (gospel), "Information" (on the Highland Park Free School), and the "Community Calendar." Produced by Marita Rivero. Directed by Conrad White.