what is kwanzaa

Kwanzaa is an annual celebration of African-American culture that takes place from December 26 to January 1. It was created in 1966 by Maulana Karenga, an African-American activist, and is based on African harvest festival traditions from various parts of West and Southeast Africa. The name "Kwanzaa" is derived from the Swahili phrase "matunda ya kwanza," which means "first fruits." The celebration culminates in a communal feast called Karamu, usually on the sixth day. Kwanzaa is a time for families and communities to come together to remember the past and to celebrate African American culture. It is not a religious holiday, but it encourages people to honor seven principles: unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith