On the fifth day of Kwanzaa, you’ll celebrate and explore the fifth principle. This is when you’ll merge some self-reflection with external applications that will benefit yourself and others in the community.
Day 5 of Kwanzaa: Nia
The principle of Nia is built on purpose. While this may sound simple, it combines your personal purpose with that of those around you. In fact, the practice of Nia calls for you to pledge “to make our collective vocation the building and development of our community in order to restore our people to their traditional greatness.” That puts things in a different and possibly more complicated light.
However, practicing Nia starts with some self-reflection. Earlier in the Kwanzaa celebrations, you would have focused on whether or not you were on the right path to fulfill your career or financial goals.
This time, you’ll consider your full purpose outside of your job and other responsibilities. It’s where many people ask, “Why am I here?” so they can determine what their overall purpose is supposed to be.
Having identified your purpose, you’ll move on to determining your role in building up the overall community and the Black race in general. How does fulfilling your purpose contribute to the success you and others envision for the nation as a whole?
The principle of Nia was founded on the belief that the growth and greatness that African Americans are aiming for will never happen in isolation. As such, even as you’re setting off on a purpose-driven path, you’re encouraged to bear those around you in mind.
Some common ways to practice Nia are volunteering in the community, supporting neighborhood events, using Black-owned businesses when organizing events, and passing on your expertise or knowledge to the younger generation.
Day 5 of Kwanzaa is celebrated on December 30th.
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How To Celebrate Nia
The fifth day of the festivities starts the same way as the others. The leader asks, “Habari gani?” or “What’s happening?” of those who are in attendance.
The response for the fifth day will be Nia to show that you’ll be celebrating the principle that’s dedicated to