Many celebrate ingredients that traveled with Africans to the Americas - yams, sesame seeds, collard greens and hot peppers. The Karumu room may be decorated in the colors of Kwanzaa which are black, red and green. Self-determination requires that we define our common interests and make decisions that are in the best interest of our family and community. Cooperative economics emphasizes our collective economic strength and encourages us to meet common needs through mutual support. Purpose encourages us to look within ourselves and to set personal goals that are beneficial to the community.
Creativity makes use of our creative energies to build and maintain a strong and vibrant community.
Faith focuses on honoring the best of our traditions, draws upon the best in ourselves, and helps us strive for a higher level of life for humankind, by affirming our self-worth and confidence in our ability to succeed and triumph in righteous struggle. For many people around the world, Kwanzaa is a time to reflect on the use of the basic principles, share and enjoy the fruits of their labor, and recommit themselves to the collective achievement of a better life for their family, their community, and their people.