At US² Consulting, we deeply appreciate cultural expressions that champion the values of unity, self-determination, collective responsibility, and purpose. As Kwanzaa is observed from December 26th to January 1st, we’re taking this opportunity to reflect on how the principles of this celebration beautifully align with our mission of creating spaces where everyone is seen, heard, welcomed, and valued.
The Seven Principles of Kwanzaa
Kwanzaa is a seven-day celebration that honors African American heritage and culture. Each of the seven days of Kwanzaa is dedicated to one of the following principles:
- Umoja (Unity): To strive for and maintain unity in the family, community, nation, and race.
- Kujichagulia (Self-determination): To define ourselves, name ourselves, create for ourselves, and speak for ourselves.
- Ujima (Collective Responsibility): To build and maintain our community together and make our brother’s and sister’s problems our problems and to solve them together.
- Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics): To build and maintain our own stores, shops, and other businesses and to profit from them together.
- Nia (Purpose): To make our collective vocation the building and developing of our community in order to restore our people to their traditional greatness.
- Kuumba (Creativity): To always do as much as we can, in the way we can, in order to leave our community more beautiful and beneficial than we inherited it.
- Imani (Faith): To believe with all our heart in our people, our parents, our teachers, our leaders, and the righteousness and victory of our struggle.
US²’s Commitment to Belonging
At US² Consulting, we are committed to fostering a sense of belonging in every organization and community we serve. We believe that when people are seen, heard, welcomed, and valued, they are empowered to reach their full potential.
How Kwanzaa’s Principles Align with US²’s Values
- Umoja (Unity): We believe in the power of collaboration and collective action to achieve meaningful change.
- Kujichagulia (Self-determination): We empower individuals and organizations to define their own paths and create their own solutions.
- Ujima (Collective Responsibility): We foster a sense of shared responsibility for creating inclusive and equitable communities.
- Nia (Purpose): We help organizations define their purpose and align their actions with their values.
- Kuumba (Creativity): We encourage innovative thinking and creative problem-solving to address complex challenges.
- Imani (Faith): We believe in the power of individuals and communities to create a better future.
Celebrating Kwanzaa’s Values Year-Round
While Kwanzaa is a specific celebration, its principles resonate throughout the year. Let’s embrace the spirit of unity, self-determination, and collective responsibility in our everyday lives as we work towards creating a more just and equitable world for all.
