Happy Kwanzaa! Kwanzaa is an African-American and pan-African holiday which celebrates family, community, and culture. It was created in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga, an activist, author, and professor of Africana Studies. Kawanza is a seven-day cultural festival from December 26 to January 1. The name Kwanzaa is derived from the phrase“matunda ya kwanza” which means “first fruits” in Swahili. On each of the seven nights, the family gathers and a child lights one of the candles on the Kinara (candleholder), then one of the seven principles is discussed. The principles, called the Nguzo Saba (seven principles in Swahili) are values of African culture which contribute to building and reinforcing community. Follow along each day in our stories as we explore the Nguzo Saba. Harembee! ❤️🖤💚 #HappyKwanza #Kwanza2023 #BLKHistory #VisitBLKRVA