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NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — December 26, kicks off the first day of the Kwanzaa holiday.

First created in 1966 by a California professor, the week-long celebration of family and social values, is aimed at helping African Americans reconnect with their roots by celebrating African culture.

Each day is represented by a principle and on that day of observance, a candle is lit:

  • UMOJA- Unity
  • KUJICHAGULIA- Self-Determination
  • UJIMA- Collective work and responsibility
  • UJAMA A- Familyhood and Cooperative Economics
  • NIA- Purpose
  • KUUMBA- Creativity
  • IMANI- Faith

The New Orleans Kwanzaa Coalition will be hosting a series of celebration for the next seven days beginning Dec. 26 and ending Jan. 1.

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