Most UTM students know the story of Christmas. Either they know about the somewhat commercialized gift giving holiday or the more traditional celebration of the birth of Jesus. But Christmas is not the only important holiday celebrated by students this time of year.

“I know that we have to be very open and respectful, that we have other cultures on campus,” said Teresa Woody, director of Minority Affairs.

Woody urges UTM students to learn a little more about the other holidays celebrated around this time of year.

Hanukkah

“Hanukkah is important because Jewish people look back on times of oppression and they celebrate solidarity and family love,” Woody said.

Hanukkah, known by many as the “festival of lights,” celebrates the miracle of lamp oil in the temple of Jerusalem meant to burn for a day, burning for eight. Some historians assert that other traditions are the predecessor to Hanukkah, but most Jews associate the holiday relate the holiday in the metaphorical sense that the oil burning for eight days instead of one represents how the Jewish people have survived persecution, oppression and other such trials and tribulations throughout the centuries.

Jews celebrate Hanukkah today by lighting candles (or oil lamps, or in some cases where flame is not permitted, electric lights) and the giving of gifts to children. Originally, coins were given, but most modern Jews give gifts to avoid having their children feel left out of the gift giving in Christian families.

Kwanzaa

“Kwanzaa is a festival that celebrates the African village life. African Americans can also participate in the rituals. It may be a religious belief for those indigenous to Africa, but for us in America it’s more of a cultural thing. It reminds us of things we need to be thankful for,” Woody said.

Originally created by Ron Karenga in 1966 as an alternative to Christmas for African-Americans, Kwanzaa comes from the Swahili word “kwanza,” meaning “first fruit.” Like Hanukkah, Kwanzaa features the lighting candles (though only seven).

Practiced almost exclusively by African Americans, Kwanzaa is more of a celebration and embracing of African culture.

As the world moves ever further along the road of globalization, it is becoming increasingly more important to not only be familiar with, but tolerant of a multitude of beliefs and traditions. On that note, The Pacer wishes everyone a “Happy Holidays,” whatever holiday you might call your own.