My objects are Kwanzaa candles. They are used on the seven days of Kwanzaa. There are 3 red, 1 black, then 3 green, in that order. You light the black candle first, then start with the most left red candle. You then move down the row of candles until all of the candles are lit. You would light a different candle each day. The candles represent the seven ideas of Kwanzaa: Unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith.
Kwanzaa is a holiday celebrated by African-Americans and Pan-Africans. Kwanzaa isn't just for one religion, so if you celebrate something else, you can still celebrate Kwanzaa! Kwanzaa started in 1966, so it is a fairly new holiday. Dr. Maulana Karenga created the holiday after the Watts rebellion to unite and give power to the African-American community after the disaster. Kwanzaa is from December 26 - January 1. The gifts people give for Kwanzaa are a book and a heritage symbol.
This object is important to me because it allows me to celebrate this holiday, and the idea of it. My family doesn't celebrate Kwanzaa as much as we used to, but I hope we can because the holiday is something that brings people together.
I chose this holiday/these candles because they are important to many African-Americans and me. Kwanzaa unites people, and reminds them of their strengths.
I want to know from my parents why they chose to celebrate this holiday, and if their parents influenced their choice. I'm glad that Dr. Karenga created Kwanzaa, and that I celebrate it.

– BJ

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