You’ve heard about Kwanzaa, but what does the seven-day celebration really mean? It's a holiday tradition rooted in African heritage. Kwanzaa is a Swahili word meaning "first fruits." What Kwanzaa is: Kwanzaa is a seven-day pan-African celebration that encourages those who celebrate to embody seven principles integrating family, community and culture. What Kwanzaa is not: Although Kwanzaa starts right after Christmas and runs through New Year’s Day, it is not a religious celebration. People of all faiths are welcome to take part in the traditions. When was Kwanzaa created? Dr. Maulana Karenga started the celebration in 1966. Dr. Karenga’s background is in Black Studies. How do you celebrate Kwanzaa? Kwanzaa means “first fruits” in Swahili, and each day is represented by the Nguzo Saba – the seven principles. Umoja: Unity Kujichagulia: Self-determination Ujima: Collective work and responsibility Ujamaa: Cooperative economics Nia: Purpose Kuumba: Creativity Imani: Faith MORE: https://www.wtsp.com/article/entertainment/television/brightside/what-is-kwanzaa/67-1d7f0af2-27ad-4255-bdc1-46dc15faf17b ►Subscribe: https://on.wtsp.com/youtube ►Website: https://www.wtsp.com/ ►Facebook: https://facebook.com/10TampaBay ►Twitter: https://twitter.com/10TampaBay