Kwanzaa Symbol Strips

Learn about Kwanzaa and traditional Adinkra weaving patterns used on Kente cloth.

• 1.

  Research the African family holiday of Kwanzaa. Find the symbols for the 7 principles of Kwanzaa (listed here in Swahili and then English): <li>Umoja: Unity <li>Kujichagulia: Self-determination <li>Ujima: Collective work and responsibility <li>Ujamaa: Cooperative economics <li>Nia: Purpose <li>Kuumba: Creativity <li>Imani: Faith How do these principles relate to your life? To your community? Find out why the colors red, green, and black represent the holiday (black for the people, red for their struggle, and green for the future).

• 2.

  Find an example of African Kente cloth. It is traditionally woven in long, narrow strips, which contain a woven pattern. In Adinkra patterns, a symbol is repeated several times, then surrounded with a simple linear border.

• 3.

  Use red, green, and/or black Crayola® Washable Markers and a ruler to draw a thin, repeated linear pattern (similar to Adinkra patterns) around the edges of two pieces of construction paper.

• 4.

  Divide the blank areas inside the pattern into four blocks by folding the sheet in half, then in half the opposite way. On the fold lines, repeat the linear pattern you drew on the edges.

• 5.

  In each of the spaces inside the pattern, draw one symbol of Kwanzaa, again using red, green, and/or black. Write the Swahili and English words if you wish. On the blank panel, create a title for your work.

• 6.

  When you finish all seven principles of Kwanzaa, cut the panels apart with Crayola Scissors. Tape them together so they fall into a long strip, as would traditional Kente cloth.

Benefits

• Children research and recognize the various symbols and colors associated with Kwanzaa, and learn their meanings. They relate the historical significance of these symbols and colors to their contemporary experiences.
• Children learn about the traditional Kente cloth of Africa, particularly Adinkra cloth.
• Students create original art to demonstrate their knowledge and understandings of Kwanzaa and Adinkra weaving patterns.

Adaptations

• Create a classroom Adinkra cloth for the holiday season. Each student uses a symbol related to Kwanzaa as the repetitive theme of their panel. Join the panels for a classroom display.
• Study the Kwanzaa symbols. Identify other concepts that are important for healthy community living. Design an original symbol for a concept.
• Create other Kwanzaa decorations and symbols such as African baskets, a kinara (candle holder), or mkeka (placemat).