2018 First-Class Forever Stamp,Kwanzaa

U.S. #5337

2018 50¢ Kwanzaa

Value:  50¢ 1-ounce First-Class Rate (Forever)

Issue Date:  October 10, 2018

First Day City:  Raleigh, NC

Type of Stamp:  Commemorative

Printed by:  Banknote Corporation of America

Printing Method:  Offset, Microprint

Format:  Pane of 20

Self-Adhesive

Quantity Printed:  15,000,000

Kwanzaa is still a fairly new holiday.  It was created in 1966 by Maulana Karenga, a Black Power activist, as part of the Black Freedom Movement.  The theme of community is deeply embedded in the holiday.  Moreover, it serves to join African Americans with their culture and historical heritage.

A dance troupe known as Kuumba House Dance Theater has been working to reconnect people with their African roots since 1999.  Their show called "Highlights of Kwanzaa" follows a brother and sister who are transported to Africa from America.  They learn how different life is for children across the world.  During their journey, the experience many cultures and meet extraordinary people, like Queen Nefertiti and Zulu warriors.  Arriving home, they join a huge Kwanzaa celebration that mixes all the traditions they've learned about.

In 2018, the USPS issued the seventh Kwanzaa design since the holiday was first pictured on a stamp in 1997.  Artist Floyd Cooper used a method painting called "oil erasure" for the design.  He painted layers with oil paint and then erased sections to expose the image.  This stamp, like the others in the series, helps educate the rest of the world on the importance of Kwanzaa and the rich culture that it celebrates.