We lit our candles each day on the kinara, and revisited each of the seven principles, intended to instill values that could keep our people unified and in touch with our African roots. My mom, Imani,

The annual celebration of African-American culture honors 7 principles, one for each day, teaching lessons for families to live by. The first one is Umoja, which represents unity. Kwanzaa runs through January 1.

If you'd like to celebrate, there will be Kwanzaa events across Michigan this season. Here's what to know. Start the day smarter. Get all the news you need in your inbox each morning. Kwanzaa is a weeklong African American and Pan-African holiday celebrating culture and community.

Each day has a specific theme and a candle is lit each night on a seven-branched candelabra called the Kinara.

The week-long celebration of African American culture runs from Dec. 26 to Jan. 1. READ MORE: It is especially surprising that one of the first federal agencies to come under scrutiny from the incoming administration is one that has returned billions of dollars to many of the same consumers who were counting on leaders in Washington to look out for their wallets.

Here is where you can enjoy Kwanzaa festivities happening around Las Vegas. Noon to 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 26, at West Las Vegas Library, 951 W. Lake Mead Blvd. Join us as we celebrate Umoja. To strive for and maintain unity in the family,

If you're celebrating Kwanzaa with kids this season, or need a good gift for a young reader in your life, these adorable kids Kwanzaa books will fit the bill. With colorful illustrations, impactful lessons and memorable characters,