Why embrace the seven principles of Kwanzaa?
MK: Why not? Unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperate economics, purpose, creativity and faith should be, as Chuck D says in the film, ‘the electricity of our lives.’ These principles are universal and need to embraced by the world. Coretta: Why do you believe Kwanzaa is important today? MK: For a variety of reasons. Firstly, it was a holiday created to celebrate us as African-Americans. It’s important to celebrate yourself and your heritage. We have a long and magnificent history that did not start with slavery, it’s important to recognize that. It is also important to reflect on our achievements and our goals, to have a space where young and old can connect in a cultural setting. Coretta: Why did you use historical media clips of James Baldwin, Muhammad Ali and Angela Davis to frame the Kwanzaa movie? MK: I realized in the course of making this film that this was more than a film about Kwanzaa, but a celebration of who we are as a people. The people yo
