The Rochester Kwanzaa Coalition has started their week-long celebration of Kwanzaa.

On Thursday night, dozens gathered at the Nathaniel Rochester Community Center. There was a performance where those on stage played African music.

There was a lot on display, which included pictures of influential African Americans, traditional African garb and jewelry. The coalition celebrates Kwanzaa every year as a way to keep African American history alive.

"Well many of us don't know the history, so it's really looking back and pulling that history forward, just like the Sankofa Bird, as they say, so look back to go into the future," said Terry Chaka, co-chair of the Rochester Kwanzaa Coalition.

Organizers say everyone is welcome to attend the events throughout the week.