[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 34, Number 52 (Monday, December 28, 1998)]
[Page 2522]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Message on the Observance of Kwanzaa, 1998

December 22, 1998

    Warm greetings to everyone observing Kwanzaa.
    In millions of homes across America and around the world, the 
holiday of Kwanzaa is both a solemn and a joyous occasion. It is a time 
to honor God and to reaffirm a commitment to the values of love, 
community, and responsibility. It is a celebration of the diverse 
cultures within the African diaspora and a time to give thanks for the 
blessings of family and friendship. It is also an opportunity to reflect 
on the lessons and legacy of the past so that we might build a better 
future.
    The seven principles of Kwanzaa--unity, self-determination, 
collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, 
creativity, and faith--echo many of the same ideals that inspired our 
country's founders and shaped our nation's character. Crossing lines of 
religion, culture, and background, these common values help us to forge 
stronger families and communities and compel us to achieve our highest 
goals.
    As families across our nation gather to celebrate this festive 
holiday, Hillary and I extend warmest wishes for a joyous Kwanzaa and a 
new year of peace and happiness.
                                                  Bill Clinton