The Postal Service dedicated its latest Kwanzaa stamp on Sept. 23 in Norfolk, VA.
The ceremony took place during the annual conference of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH).
“This new Kwanzaa stamp is not only a wonderful affirmation of African American culture, it will also make a beautiful, heartwarming addition to your cards and letters,” said Norfolk, VA, Postmaster Matthew Toman, who served as the dedicating official. “With every new design, I continue to be amazed by the creativity of our artists and designers and their ability to capture the essence of Kwanzaa.”
Established in the United States in 1966, Kwanzaa draws on ancient and modern first-harvest festivities from across the African continent. The name is derived from the Swahili phrase “matunda ya kwanza,” meaning “first fruits.”
Today, millions of Americans observe the week-long cultural celebration from Dec. 26-Jan. 1. Each day is dedicated to one of seven core principles: unity (umoja), self-determination (kujichagulia), collective work and responsibility (ujima), cooperative economics (ujamaa), purpose (nia), creativity (kuumba) and faith (imani).
Joining Toman for the ceremony were mistress of ceremonies Janine Bell, president and artistic director of the Elegba Folklore Society; Kaye Whitehead, president-elect of ASALH; Cassandra Newby-Alexander, historian and author; and Crystal Sessoms, founder and director of Seedahope Productions.
Antonio Alcalá, an art director for USPS, designed the stamp with an original illustration by Cannaday Chapman.
The artwork depicts a father holding his young daughter, both dressed in traditional African clothing. The palette of pink, green and yellow was inspired by the vibrant colors found in West African Ankara textiles.
The Forever stamp is available in sheets of 20 at Post Offices and on usps.com.
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