Umoja (Unity) To strive for and maintain unity in the family, community, nation, and race of our people
The symbol for Umoja is the "Dagi Knot" - a Pan African symbol of unity found in many African cultures (Bushongo, Hausa, Yoruba, etc.). Umoja stresses the importance of the bond, the will, the vision, & togetherness for the family & the community village (Ubuntu - I am because We are).
Everyone in the community is responsible for one another in some shape, form, or fashion. For Umoja we light the first candle (The Black candle) honoring and respecting the light placed on our black lives.
We must love, practice, and protect our heritage because history teaches us that we must fight so that others do not devalue or lessen the importance of our community.
We may not all believe in the same thing. That is ok, as long as we believe in the same goal.
Why Umoja?
1) With unity comes power: Problems that seemed insurmountable become feasibly possible
2) Unity gains attention: By standing behind one another, we can make big change
3) Unity creates togetherness: We may not always be together with our families, friends, & loved ones, but we must always remember that we are CONNECTED
Examples of Umoja in Our History
The Great Migration (1916 - 1970) Harlem Renaissance (1917 - 1937) Scottsboro Trials (1931) Montgomery Bus Boycott (1955 - 1956) Greensboro Sit-in (1960) Freedom Riders (1961) Selma-Montgomery March (1965)
How Can We Practice Umoja?
Marching arm & arm as we fight social and economic injustice Use our money to purposefully participate in "buying black" & "banking black" Comment, like, share, or subscribe to impactful black social media content. Collaborate across creative spheres
