The origins of Kwanzaa and its significance in the African American community

Many people across the Tampa Bay area are celebrating Kwanzaa, a seven-day African American holiday that starts on Dec. 26 and ends on Jan. 1. “Kwanzaa is important to our entire community because it represents family, community and togetherness,” said Reverend Dr. Glenn B. Dames, Jr., pastor of Allen Temple African Methodist Episcopal Church in Tampa. Pastor Dames, Jr. said many of his parishioners celebrate the holiday.