Maulana Karenga, now chairman of the black studies department at California State University in Long Beach, created Kwanzaa in 1966. This cultural, non-religious celebration revolves around the Nguzo Saba ("seven principles" in Swahili), designed to promote strength and unity in black families and communities. African Americans celebrate the holiday over seven days between Christmas and New Year's Day, with each day dedicated to one of these principles: Umoja (unity) Kujichagulia (self-determination) Ujima (collective work and responsibility) Ujamaa (cooperative economics) Nia (purpose) Kuumba (creativity) Imani (faith)