Obama sends prayers, best wishes on Kwanzaa

Kwanzaa
Camille Yarborough sings African music behind a traditional "kinara" candelabra during a news preview of the "Kwanzaa 2004: We Are Family" festival at the American Museum of Natural History on Dec. 22, 2004, in New York City.
Mario Tama / Getty Images 2004

President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama are sending their prayers and best wishes to those celebrating Kwanzaa.

The Obamas say in a statement that the Kwanzaa celebration highlights the rich heritage of African-Americans. They say families come together on Kwanzaa to reflect on the past year's blessing and look forward to the promises that lie ahead next year. The Obamas are vacationing in Hawaii.

They're calling attention to Kwanzaa's seven principles, which include creativity, self-determination, purpose and unity, responsibility, cooperative economics and faith.

The Obama say they remain committed to building a nation that provides opportunity for everyone. They say there's much to be thankful for as families light the Kinara, a candle holder used to celebrate Kwanzaa.

The seven-day African-American holiday starts Friday.

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