People from all across Chicago came to Malcolm X College for the annual Kwanzaa event, which was held for free. 

The event, held during the last week of 2022, began when the doors opened at 10 a.m. Visitors enjoyed a mix of shopping and live music, and other artisanal items created and offered by local craftsmen.

"Rooted in Swahili tradition, Kwanzaa is a time for people of African descent to reflect on their culture and values, with an emphasis on family and community," according to the City Colleges of Chicago.

The celebration, "A Story of a Resilient Culture," presented readings of children's books and performances by the Thunder Sky Drummers and the Najwa Dance Corps, a local dance troupe. Vocalist and Emmy Award winner Joan Collaso also performed that night.

Kwanzaa is a seven-day holiday that was started in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga. Creating a national day of observance dedicated to Africa and its people was a major priority for him. Each of the seven tenets, or The Nguzo Saba, is celebrated for a day beginning on the day after Christmas. Umoja (unity), kujichagulia (self-determination), ujima (collective effort and responsibility), ujamaa (cooperative economy), nia (purpose), kuumba (creativity), and imani (respect) are the seven guiding principles (faith).

The first level of Malcolm X College was used for this public event. The college also provided free parking in its garage, which was accessible from Jackson Street.