HABARI GANI?
(What’s the News?)

The origin of the idea for a perpetual calendar on which to record annual events (birthdays,  anniversaries, etc) was a collaborative effort with my teacher friends. The calendar we designed in the 1990s, had student artwork and was sold to raise funds for class field trips. I also remember our yearly, school-wide Kwanzaa celebrations. We taught our students Kwanzaa principles in creative, and fun ways.

As a ‘freetired’ educator (KUJICHAGULIA—-self-determination), the inspiration for Celebrate Kwanzaa: A Guide and Calendar, is a result of my memories as a former elementary school teacher and my current work with my great niece, Joi Renique, the founder of Celebrate Legacy (CelebrateLegacy.net).  I enlisted the graphic design skills of my sister, Kim Smith Turner, founder of D’Vine Connections to complete this project.

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The original artwork by Peter Bibby was a gift and is evidence of his willingness to share his talent as a visual artist.

 

We definitely used the Kwanzaa principles of KUUMBA (creativity) and UJIMA (collective work and responsibility) to bring this endeavor to fruition.
 

I am grateful to all (UMOJA—-unity) who contributed to this project by providing encouragement, feedback, proofreading and editing. Your support is very much appreciated!

It is our hope (IMANI—-faith) that those who purchase this guide and calendar, (UJAMMA—cooperative economics) will find it useful (NIA—-purpose) as you and your family Celebrate Kwanzaa!

HARAMBEE! HARAMBEE! HARAMBEE!
(Let’s All Pull Together!)

Sincerely,
Furelise Smith