The Springfield African American History Museum allowed for people to come celebrate Kwanzaa, a tradition throughout the country that dates back to 1967.
"I did my first Kwanzaa celebration in 1975, and I've done something with it ever since," said UIS Professor of African-American Studies Kamau Kemayo.
Kemayo led the group in libations. He believes some have misconceptions on why African-Americans participate.
"People think it is a religious holiday," Kemayo said. "It's a cultural and spiritual holiday. It's about community, it's about the people. It's about the individuals, it's about their characters."
Kemayo was featured by WICS-TV 20 on December 30, 2012.
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