However , as Kwanzaa became more popular , Karenga changed his position so that practicing Christians could also feel included . He stated in the 1997 Kwanzaa : A Celebration of Family , Community , and Culture , `` Kwanzaa was not created to give people an alternative to their own religion or religious holiday . '' However , as Kwanzaa gained mainstream adherents , Karenga altered his position so that practicing Christians would not be alienated , then stating in the 1997 Kwanzaa : A Celebration of Family , Community , and Culture , `` Kwanzaa was not created to give people an alternative to their own religion or religious holiday . ''