This African-American holiday was born in 1966, an outgrowth of the Civil Rights Movement, as black Americans sought unity and ways of relating to their unique history. Kwanzaa is celebrated from December 26 through January 1, with each day focused on Nguzo Saba, or the Seven Principles: Unity, Self-Determination, Collective Work & Responsibility, Cooperative Economics, Purpose, Creativity, and Faith. It is a time of reconnection with African cultural roots, when family and community are celebrated and the historic struggles of black Americans are remembered.

Derived from the Swahili phrase for “first fruits,” the celebration of Kwanzaa was inspired by the winter harvest celebrations common to numerous African cultures. It is non-religious, and Africans and African-Americans of many religious faiths celebrate this holiday.

A Kwanzaa display traditionally includes a Kinara – a stepped candleholder – with seven candles: a black candle flanked by three red and three green. Other decorations include a chalice symbolizing unity and dried corn recalling the harvest and family continuity. All is placed on a woven mat, symbolizing the foundations of African-American history.

For some, Kwanzaa is more than a celebration; it is a way of life. As a living social practice, it is a method of constantly remembering, recommitting and rejoicing – to help Black Americans relate to the past in order to understand the present.