Milwaukee Celebrates First Day of Kwanzaa with Unity Ceremony at Wisconsin Black Historical Society

On Friday, December 26, 2025, The Wisconsin Black Historical Society hosted a traditional opening ceremony welcoming the public to celebrate together for the seven-day cultural holiday, Kwanzaa.

For seven days, this non-religious, cultural celebration honoring African heritage begins with the first day, Umoja, which means unity — uniting families, neighborhoods, and the Black community.

The Wisconsin Black Historical Society has been hosting a traditional opening ceremony for decades, welcoming the public to reflect, connect, and celebrate together. The other days of Kwanzaa are Kujichaqulia (Self-Determination), Ujima (Collective Work & Responsibility), Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), Kuumba (Creativity), Imani (Faith). The celebration this year included Music, African Drumming, Performances, Candle Lighting, and space for conversation, all centered on connection. Also this year Diggy, a stilt dancer with the Kaisokah group, performed during the opening ceremony.