Kwanzaa is a week-long celebration honoring African heritage. Kwanzaa was created in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga, professor of Africana Studies at California State University, Long Beach. The holiday is meant to introduce and reinforce seven basic values of African culture which contribute to family, community and culture among African-American people and Africans throughout the world. These values are called the Nguzo Saba (Swahili for the Seven Principles).

Each of the seven days of Kwanzaa is dedicated to one principle: umoja (unity), kujichagulia (self-determination), ujima (collective work and responsibility), ujamaa (cooperative economics), nia (purpose), kuumba (creativity) and imani (faith). Kwanzaa is a cultural holiday, not a religious one. It is available to and practiced by Africans of all religious faiths who come together based on the rich, ancient and varied common ground of their African heritage. A Joyous Kwanzaa to all who are celebrating these values now and throughout the year!

Mitch