Kwanzaa: Fact Or Fiction?

A debate broke out during the Just a Bit Outside program this evening. Kwanzaa was the topic. Tyrone Johnson believe the holiday is fraudulent and isn't totally convinced that anyone celebrates it. Mike Krenek thinks some people perpetuate the myth because it's the politically correct thing to do. I believe in the wikipedia figure in which the African American Cultural Center estimates 30 million people celebrate the holiday on a yearly basis.

I will admit, it is strange that a holiday has only been celebrated for 46 years. But just because it's new doesn't mean it isn't legit. Here's what I know, without question: The seven celebrations of Kwanzaa are Unity, Self-Determination, Collective Work and Responsibility, Cooperative Economics, Purpose, Creativity, and Faith.

Is this holiday for real? Do more than a few politically correct people celebrate it? The one African-American friend I interact with on a daily basis doesn't believe in the backbone of this "holiday" and won't be convinced otherwise. I thought I found a party in Ocean County to attend on Thursday, December 30th...except that date doesn't exist in 2011.

Eh, maybe the whole thing is make believe.