By By ANDY HAMILTON / Niles Daily Star
NILES – The holiday season and its celebrations have generally been tied to religion.
One holiday celebrated by Africans worldwide this time of year focuses more on the family and community. Kwanzaa officially starts Dec. 26, but a lesson on its history and meaning was presented Tuesday evening at the Niles District Library by Rev. Saundria H. Wilson, president of the Niles Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People.
"It has no direct religious significance," Wilson said. "It was designed to be a cultural holiday for family."
Dr. Maulana Karenga, a professor at the California State University, Long Beach, started Kwanzaa in 1966. Each day of the seven-day celebration, designed to strengthen the family, Wilson said, focuses on one of seven values of African culture – Umoja (unity), Kujichagulia (self-determination), Ujima (collective work and responsibility), Ujamaa (cooperative economics), Nia (purpose), Kuumba (creativity), and Imani (faith).
"Every night is devoted to a special principle," Wilson said.
The final day of Kwanzaa is Jan. 1.
Wilson's presentation also featured a demonstration of the Kwanzaa ceremony, Kwanzaa crafts, African music and a video about the celebration.