Celebrate Kwanzaa: Umoja.

On this, the first day of Kwanzaa, we focus on umoja (unity) and "strive for and maintain unity in the family, community, nation and race."

Unity comes, in part, through mutual understanding and respect. Here are some learn about and gain respect for others:

* Practice tolerance of those who may be different from (or the same as) you in some way. You don't have to agree with someone or share their beliefs to respect them as a person.

* Learn about others through programs like Women for Women International (Thanks KCB!), People to People International, and study abroad and exchange programs.

* Read about folks in their own words through their books, magazines, newspapers, and blogs.

As humans, we are all members of that first African Diaspora. Accordingly, the principles of Kwanzaa apply to us all. Manifest the Kwanzaa principles today, this week, and all year long.

“On some positions, Cowardice asks the question, "Is it safe?" Expediency asks the question, "Is it politic?" And Vanity comes along and asks the question, "Is it popular?" But Conscience asks the question, "Is it right?" And there comes a time when one must take a position that is neither safe, nor politic, nor popular, but he must do it because Conscience tells him it is right.” - Martin Luther King, Jr.