Kwanzaa, A Celebration of Family, Community and Culture

What is KWANZAA?

• KWANZAA is an African American and Pan African holiday that celebrates family, community and most of all culture.It was created and first celebrated in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga, then professor of Africana Studies.
• Dr. Karenga sought to create a celebration that would honor and up hold the values of ancient African cultures moreover, to inspire African Americans who were working for progress and change.
• Dr. Karenga states firmly on his belief and ensured that KWANZAA was not created to be a religious holiday nor was it created to replace Christmas.
  However, KWANZAA is based on the year end harvest festivals that have taken place throughout Africa for thousands of years.

To learn more more about this important Celebration click: Introduction to KWANZAA.