What:

The U.S. Postal Service continues its long-standing tradition of celebrating Kwanzaa, the annual pan-African holiday that has united countless African-American families and communities since its inception in 1966.

The Kwanzaa stamp first day of issue event is free and open to the public. Stamp news will be shared using the hashtag #KwanzaaStamp

WHO:

Roderick Sallay, USPS Director of Legislative Policy and Strategic Development

When:

Wednesday, September 25, 12:30 p.m. 1:00 p.m. EDT

Where:

Senator John Heinz History Center
1212 Smallman Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15222

Answer:

Participants are requested to register here: usps.com/kwanzaastamp

Background:

Celebrated from December 26 to January 1, Kwanzaa is a celebration of family, community and culture. With its roots in ancient and modern harvest festivals, Kwanzaa brings together traditions from across the African continent to promote unity and pride.
The holiday focuses on the seven core principles of unity (umoja), self-determination (kujichagulia), collective work and responsibility (ujima), cooperative economics (ujamaa), determination (nia), creativity (kuumba) and faith (imani). The holiday highlights the rich heritage and aspirations of the African American community.

It is a festive time to look forward to health, prosperity and happiness in the coming year. It is also a time of reflection and remembrance of past hardships faced by both individuals and communities, and the ways in which history can shape and influence future happiness.

Ethel Kessler, art director of the USPS, designed the stamp featuring original artwork by Ehua Holmes.

The Kwanzaa stamp will be issued as a “Forever” stamp in sheets of 20. The value of this stamp will always be the current price for a 1-ounce First Class Mail stamp.

Postal products

Customers can purchase stamps and other philatelic products through the Postal business at usps.com/shopstampsby phone at 844-737-7826, by mail at USA Philately or at post offices across the country. For officially licensed stamp products, purchase Official USPS License Collection on AmazonFor more information about stamps, first issue ceremonies and stamp-inspired products, visit StampsForever.com.

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