Kwanzaa and the Seven Principles: Day Two: Kujichagulia: Self-Determination

Yesterday was about Unity. Today is about Self-Determination. In a time where we are consumed with the lifestyles of every one else, this is refreshing to look inward instead of outward. This is not a principle about separating a way from, but merely one of looking to oneself for validation and guidance. We have spent a lot of time and money trying to be like the 'Jones's'. Exactly, who are the 'Jones's' anyway?? Take today to reflect on what you can do for yourself to help define who you are.

The principle of Kujichagulia (Self-Determination) instructs us to assert our-selves in self-defining and dignity-affirming ways in the world; and to create the mira-cles, monuments and meaningful relation-ships and achievements we want in our lives. And it reaffirms our right and respon-sibility to live liberating and liberated lives; to value and dialog constantly with our own culture; retrieve and bring forth the best of what it means to be African and human, and speak this unique and equally valid and val-uable truth to the world. And it upholds the right of all peoples in the world to demand and do likewise.

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