Kwanzaa- Day Two

The second day of Kwanzaa is dedicated to the principle of kujichagulia (koo-jee-cha-goo-LEE-ah), which is self-determination: Thinking for myself, and deciding what I will say and what I will do with my life. In other words, I won’t let the dominant culture decide how I live!

Self-determination requires me to understand who I am- personally, historically, and culturally. I need to know the history of my people and where I come from, so that I can live grounded in my past. My English, Welsh, German, Swiss, French, and Dutch ancestors have much wisdom and insight to offer me.

Even though I am white, and therefore a part of the dominant culture of this country, I choose to live outside many of this culture's conventions. I need to know what my personal Truth is, think for myself, and make my own choices for the future. I need to speak truth to power and live in a way that supports all humans.

Agenda:
1. Journal:
Who am I and how do I define myself- personally, historically, and culturally? 
How do I express my individuality?

Begin to consider what my New Year’s resolutions might be... 

What dreams do I have for the New Year? 
What might I do in the New Year to better define myself?

2. Kwanzaa ceremony:
I light the black candle and the purple again, for the people, and the inside red candle for the fire in my heart that keeps me working hard for the things I believe in.

Then I recite this affirmation-
I will define myself, create for myself, and speak for myself. I will accomplish my dreams for the future.


3. Self-determination project:
Today I will update my collage Intentions poster, to show my plans for 2017.