WISOMMM

05/01/2026

02/01/2026

Today, February 1, 2026, marks the beginning of Black History Month in the U.S. and Canada, a month-long, annual celebration established to recognize the central role of African Americans in U.S. history. The 2026 observance emphasizes education and ongoing efforts to protect the teaching of Black history amidst shifting political climates.

Key Events on February 1st in Black History:

Black History Month Begins: Initiated by Carter G. Woodson in 1926 as "Negro History Week" during the second week of February to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, it later expanded to the full month of February.

1865: Constitutional Amendment Passed: President Abraham Lincoln signed the Joint Resolution of Congress submitting the proposed 13th Amendment to the states, which abolished slavery.

1960: Greensboro Sit-ins: Although beginning on Feb 1, the sit-ins at a Woolworth's lunch counter in Greensboro, N.C., gained momentum, sparking a massive, youth-led movement for civil rights.

01/19/2026

Today is Martin Luther King Jr. Day, also known as MLK Day. It is a federal holiday observed nationwide and recognized by all 50 states. Now, more than ever, we need to revisit the work, mission and purpose of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. This courageous revolutionary was known as the "Drum Major for Justice" because he sounded the alarm that woke up the world.

This day honors the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the civil rights leader whose most well-known areas of advocacy include civil rights and racial equality, voting rights, nonviolent resistance, economic justice, fair housing, and opposition to militarism and poverty.

MLK Day commemorates Dr. King’s leadership in the civil rights movement of the 1950s and 1960s. Through peaceful protests, political strategy, powerful speeches, and organized community action, he challenged racial segregation and inspired a nation to pursue social justice.

The holiday is designated as a National Day of Service, encouraging Americans to volunteer and give back to their communities.

12/29/2025

Ujamaa, the Fourth Principle of Kwanzaa means 'Cooperative Economics'. This principle tasks us to build our own businesses, control the economics of our communities, and share in its work and wealth.

12/28/2025

Habari Gani?

The third principle is Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility), which is a commitment to active and informed togetherness on matters of common interest. It is also recognition and respect for the fact that without collective work and struggle, progress is impossible and liberation unthinkable.
Ujima, as principle and practice, also means that we accept the fact that we are collectively responsible for our failures and setbacks as well as our victories and achievements.

12/26/2025

Born out of racial inequality in the United States, Kwanzaa is a celebration of African heritage, observed annually since 1966. It’s a time for celebration and reflection, when families come together to share gifts and feasts and pay tribute to their ancestors and their future. From its origins to its traditions, here is what you should know about Kwanzaa history and celebrations.

What is Kwanzaa?
Kwanzaa is a week-long observed every year from 26 December to 1 January, to celebrate African culture, heritage and unity. The name Kwanzaa comes from the word “first” in Swahili, inspired by the start of the harvest season and the harvest traditions in West and Southeast Africa.

The origins of Kwanzaa
First celebrated in 1966, activist Maulana Karenga founded Kwanzaa. He created Kwanzaa a year after the Watts neighbourhood rebellion in Los Angeles, California. After years of police brutality and poverty, the frustrated community rioted, leaving 34 people dead and 1,000 injured. In response to the rebellion, Karenga founded the Us Organisation to rebuild the community and inspire a Black cultural revolution.

How to celebrate Kwanzaa?
Kwanzaa festivities start on 26 December and run for seven days. Each day is marked by symbols and rituals.

Seven days, seven principles
Each of the seven days of festivities represents one of the seven Nguzo Saba (principles) of Kwanzaa. The principles include unity (umoja), self-determination (kujichagulia), collective work and responsibility (ujima), cooperative economics (ujamaa), purpose (nia), creativity (kuumba), and faith (imani).