Kwanzaa, which begins today, is a seven-day celebration created during the civil rights movement that focuses on cultivating and appreciating the lives of African Americans, their past and present.

Kwanzaa is a yearly celebration of African-American culture and heritage. It starts from December 26 to January 1. Founded by Dr. Maulana Karenga in 1966, a professor and activist, Kwanzaa was created in response to the need for a cultural holiday that would unite African-Americans with their African roots.

A Mid-Michigan church is celebrating the culture and history of an African American holiday. Kwanzaa officially begins on Dec. 26 and runs through Jan. 1., and the St. Stephens Community Church celebrated the holiday for its 37th year Thursday afternoon.

Thursday marked the first day of the week-long celebration of Kwanzaa.Kwanzaa was created in 1966 as a non-religious way for African Americans to reconnect with

Kwanzaa stands as a powerful celebration of African American culture, community strength, and familial bonds. This week-long observance, held from Dec