ROCK ISLAND, Ill. (KWQC) — Dozens gathered at the Broadway Event Center in Rock Island to celebrate the beginning of Kwanzaa, a seven-day celebration of African roots.

The event featured speakers and performances about the seven Kwanzaa principles that aim to inspire the Black community to be united, self-determined, creative, and more.

Organizers have been hosting the public event for 25 years. Shellie Moore Guy spoke about the importance of the celebration.

“The significance of ending the year with something very positive – with these seven principles – going into the new year with a renewed sense of self determination and purpose to accomplish all that we want to accomplish and be who we are supposed to be,” Moore Guy said.

The Kwanzaa celebration began December 26 and goes through January 1.

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