The non-religious African-American tradition of Kwanzaa is celebrated in the U.S. for the next seven days. Developed by Dr. Maulana Karenga (1941-), professor of Africana studies at Cal State Long Beach in 1966, Kwanzaa (Swahili matunda ya kwanza, or "first fruits") evolved from the African agricultural harvest celebration.

Each day of Kwanzaa has a special spiritual theme, based on Nguzo Saba (the seven guiding principles), which include:

• Umoja (OO-MO-JAH) celebrates unity and togetherness for the family and the community. 

• Kujichagulia (KOO-GEE-CHA-GOO-LEE-YAH) calls for the self-determination to define common interests and make important decisions.

• Ujima (OO-GEE-MAH) promotes collective work and responsibility to the past, present, and future.

• Ujamaa (OO-JAH-MAH) works toward cooperative economics.

• Nia (NEE-YAH) provides purpose.

• Kuumba (KOO-OOM-BAH) develops creativity.

• Imani (EE-MAH-NEE) means faith, honoring the best traditions.

Kwanzaa, a time of reaffirming African-American ancestors and culture, celebrates the oneness and goodness of life.

As Olympic hero Jesse Owens advised about honoring life, "Find the good. It's all around you. Find it, showcase it, and you'll start believing in it." 

Celebrations unify hearts.