The fourth day of Kwanzaa is dedicated to celebrating the fourth principle. On this day, you’ll focus on more external applications of what you’ve learned so far during the festivities.
The principle of Ujamaa focuses on the benefits of cooperative economics. Those who practice Ujamaa often pledge “to build and maintain our own stores, shops, and other businesses and to profit from them together.” According to the founder of Kwanzaa, the fourth principle deals with “shared wealth and work”, “a commitment to the practice of shared social wealth and the work necessary to achieve it” and “a sharing of wealth and work in the manner of a family.”
For practical purposes, that translates to finding ways to build and support Black businesses in the community. While you may start your own business, it’s also common to find other businesses to support. In the pursuit of building wealth, you may participate in a neighborhood partner plan that’s aimed at helping each other accomplish their financial goals.
If you look even closer at Dr. Karenga’s vision of Ujamaa, you’ll find even more ways to apply it to your life. He proposes the practice of economic self-reliance as well as the obligation to help those who are poor and vulnerable. That means you should never leave anyone behind. Inevitably, some people will accomplish their goals before others but that’s not where the principle of Ujamaa ends.
When you’ve achieved what you set out to, it’s important to extend a hand to those in your community who need it. Though charitable foundations are always appreciated, that’s not the only option.
You may also establish or support organizations that give those in need the necessary skills to change their financial situations. If doing this on a large scale seems intimidating, you can also pay for the educational costs of a child in your community.
Day 4 of Kwanzaa is celebrated on December 29.
RELATED: The Seven Days of Kwanzaa: Ujima (Day 3)
As with the previous days, the leader starts the celebration by asking, “Habari gani?” or “What’s happening?” of those who are in attendance. Given that it’s the fourth day of the festivities, you would reply with Ujamaa to indicate that you’re celebrating the principle of cooperative economics.
After the prayer, the older adults will prepare the libations as well as the unity cup or cups. Someone is then given the responsibility to light four candles on the kinara.
These candles must be lit in a specific order. The black candle is lit first followed by the first red candle to the left of it. Then they would light the first green candle to the right of the black one followed by the second red candle. The second red candle is used to represent the way members of the Black community work together to improve their overall economic situation.
With the candles lit, the assigned person will make a statement about the principle of Ujamaa. As usual, this statement is aimed at ensuring that everyone understands what Ujamaa means and how it can be applied.
RELATED: 10 Kwanzaa Food Traditions & Why They Are Good For The Body & Soul
They may also share a poem, song, story, or passage about the principle while showing how it’s a part of how they live. Those in attendance may also share how they currently practice Ujamaa or plan to do so in the future.
After the discussion, you’ll share the libations. If there’s daily gift-giving, then it will happen at this point. Following that, the candles will be extinguished to indicate the end of the day’s festivities.
As you continue to celebrate Kwanzaa, be prepared for more days of self-reflection and planning to make a positive impact on those around you.
By subscribing, you consent to receive emails from BlackDoctor.com. You may unsubscribe at any time. Privacy Policy & Terms of Service.
