Day 3: Ujima

Habari Gani? Ujima!

Ujima, or Collective Work and Responsibility is the third principle, and thus the third day, of Kwanzaa. Ujima reminds us that although we must be self-determined (day 2 link), we must also work together.

There’s an African proverb that says: “A bundle cannot be fastened by one hand”. This means that while we must be self-sufficient, we must also work as a team. It’s like the other proverb: It takes a village to raise a child. We are not on our own. We have each other, because we are unified. Umoja!

Because the focus of Ujima is working as a collective, it’s important to recognize just how important that is. It may also be a good time to think back on how you tried to do something on your own and weren’t as successful as you thought you’d be, and how working as a team could help.

Here are some things to do on Ujima day:

• Light the second RED candle as you ask and answer: Habri Gani? Ujima! Then pour a drink into the Unity cup in remembrance of loved ones who are no longer here.
• Discuss with each other the meaning of the principle and how you plan to apply it in the coming year.
• Do a teamwork activity to further reinforce the importance of working together.
• Enjoy your Ujima feast (it would be a good idea to prepare this meal together in honor of the principle).