December 26 marks the first day of Kwanzaa — today we’re reflecting on the unity of our allies, partners and volunteers in the fight for voting rights. For those who might not know: Kwanzaa is a seven-day festival, founded in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga as a pushback on the commercialism of Christmas and a way for Black Americans to celebrate the holiday through community building practices shared across the continent of Africa. The week is grounded is five central sets of values: ingathering, reverence, commemoration, recommitment and celebration. Each day of #Kwanzaa is a celebration of a unique principle (the Nguzo Saba). The celebration always begins on 12/26 with Umoja (oo-MOH-ja) — unity.