The second day of Kwanzaa, Dec. 27, honors Kujichagulia, or self-determination.
It emphasizes the importance of defining and controlling one’s own life, especially in the context of the Black community. Self-determination is about making choices that reflect the values, interests and needs of the community, rather than conforming to external pressures or dominant cultural norms.
It encourages individuals to assert their agency, engage in collective decision-making and work together for the common good. This principle is deeply rooted in African social and spiritual teachings, promoting a sense of unity, purpose and responsibility within the community.
Sebastian Mazeneth is a 21-year-old amateur boxer from Bay Ridge in Brooklyn. In August, he was ranked 11th (tied with four others) on a national list of elite amateur boxers, according to his trainer, and has his sight set on qualifying for the USA Boxing National Championship, a journey that began in the ring with a silver medal at the USA Boxing Summer Festival in Wichita, Kansas, where he defeated three competitors before losing to a more seasoned opponent.
His journey to self-determination, began when moved to Brooklyn from Barranquilla, Colombia at age seven.
Beginning on December 26, and for the seven days of Kwanzaa, BK Reader will feature a different local resident or organization that exemplifies one of the seven principles!
