Kwanzaa

        Kwanzaa is an African America celebration that is focused on the values of family, community responsibility, commerce, and self-improvement. It was founded by Dr. Maulana Karenga in 1966. This
holiday has been celebrated by more than 18 million people worldwide, says the New York Times. It is based on the Nguzo Saba which are the seven principles, one for each day of the observance. It starts on
December 26th and ends on January 1st. Kwanzaa has a kinara (candle holder) with 7 candles. The candles
are named for the seven principles: Umoja which means unity, Kujichagulia whih means self-determination, Ujima which means collective. work and responsibility, Ujamaa which means cooperative economics, Nia
which means purpose, Kuumba which means creativity, and Imani which means faith. There are some misconceptions about Kwanzaa; for example, it is NOT a substitute for Christmas, it's just a time of reaffirming African American people, their ancestors, and their culture. Some people confusethe kinara with the menorah. The kinara holds seven candles to reflect the seven principles, which are the foundations of Kwanzaa. The holiday's colors are black, red, and green. Their feast is called Karamu. It is traditionally held on December 31st. It is important to decorate the place where the Karamu will be held with black, red, and
green. Happy Kwanzaa!