Welcome to MARTIAL ARTS THEATER, a vibrant platform for martial arts enthusiasts where we explore various disciplines, including karate, taekwondo, Krav Maga, Muay Thai, etc. As we delve deeper into the rich history, intricate philosophy, and advanced techniques of these diverse arts, we celebrate the discipline, dedication, and cultural significance they embody. Through expert interviews, instructional videos, and community events, we aim to provide insightful resources and foster a supportive network for practitioners of all levels, from beginners to seasoned masters. Join us on this exciting journey through the world of martial arts, where you can cultivate your skills, share your experiences, and connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for this empowering and transformative discipline.
Today, we are going to follow the life and times of Kung Fu pioneer, Grandmaster Chan Pui, a remarkable figure whose journey is a testament to resilience and determination.
Pui escapes the harshness of political oppression in his homeland, where the echoes of turmoil often stifled dreams and aspirations; he courageously embraces opportunity in the USA, a land that promised freedom and the chance to flourish.
In this new environment, he finds a rich tapestry of cultures and ideas that fuel his ambition, allowing him to reconnect with his long-buried passions and dreams. The diverse community around him inspires collaboration and innovation, as he navigates the challenges of adapting to a foreign lifestyle while holding tightly to his own heritage. With resilience and determination, Pui undertakes endeavors that not only shape his own future but also contribute to the vibrant mosaic of American society, affirming his belief that one can rise above adversity and ignite change.
Now highly recognized and celebrated, Pui Chan is not only one of the pioneers responsible for bringing traditional Kung Fu to America but also a passionate advocate for preserving its rich heritage. Through his dedication and teachings, he has inspired countless students to explore the depths of this ancient martial art, ensuring that its philosophy, discipline, and techniques continue to thrive in a new cultural landscape.
Welcome to MALICIA AS A GAME OF POWER, a blog series that examines the complexities of strategy in our interactions. We will focus on effective communication, conflict resolution, and building meaningful connections, providing guidance on decision-making and overcoming challenges. The series will cover negotiation, manipulation, leadership skills, personal branding, and online reputation management, equipping you with the tools to navigate power dynamics and succeed in your endeavors. Join us as we explore these crucial topics to help you thrive.
In this installment, we will explore the 15th law of power in the book, the 48 laws of power by Robert Greene. You can but a copy by clicking HERE.
LAW 16 USE ABSENCE TO INCREASE RESPECT & HONOR
In various aspects of life, it is essential to understand the profound impact of absence. The strategic use of absence can serve as a powerful tool to elevate the respect and honor one commands among peers and in personal relationships. When individuals create distance in interactions, whether through physical or emotional withdrawal, they inadvertently cultivate an aura of mystery and uniqueness.
This absence often prompts others to reflect on the value of the relator in their lives, stirring up a newfound appreciation for the person who has stepped back. By intentionally withdrawing at certain moments, one allows others to recognize their significance, fostering deeper connections and enhancing the respect they receive. This period of absence serves as a catalyst for introspection, compelling individuals to analyze their relationships and the roles played within them.
It beckons them to understand not only the contributions made but also the emotional support that often goes unnoticed. Thus, the careful management of presence and absence becomes a crucial strategy in navigating social dynamics effectively, as it enables an environment where people can truly acknowledge and celebrate the qualities that each individual brings to the collective experience, ultimately strengthening the bonds that tie them together.
The 16th Law of Power Through the Eyes of an Angoleiro: The Philosophy of the Malandragem
The title, “The 16th Law of Power Through the Eyes of an Angoleiro,” suggests a synthesis of two distinct, yet surprisingly congruent, philosophies: the pragmatic, often ruthless, principles of power as codified by Robert Greene, and the deep, embodied wisdom found within the Afro-Brazilian art of Capoeira Angola.
The “Angoleiro” is a practitioner and master of Capoeira Angola, a martial art, dance, and philosophical system rooted in the resistance and culture of enslaved Africans in Brazil. An Angoleiro’s perspective is inherently one of survival, subtlety, and strategic indirection—a life lived in the margins, where power is not seized through brute force but cultivated through malandragem.
Interpreting the Unwritten Law
Law 16: Use Absence to Increase Respect and Honor (The Greene Context): This law advises strategic withdrawal, creating value through scarcity, and the power of the vazio (the void). For the Angoleiro, this resonates deeply with the jogo de dentro (the internal game) and the strategic retreat (saída). By disappearing from the center of attention, one forces the opponent (and the world) to perceive one’s return as a valuable and powerful event. The ginga—the continuous, fluid movement—is a constant presence and absence, a literal embodiment of this law.
A Hypothetical 16th Law: Master the Art of the Subversive Game (The Angoleiro Context): If an Angoleiro were to pen a 16th law, it would undoubtedly center on malandragem. This term is difficult to translate directly but encompasses cunning, street-smarts, quick wit, and the ability to operate outside conventional rules. It is the power of the trickster, the subtle manipulator who wins not by confrontation, but by reading the rhythm and psychology of the opponent.
The Angoleiro’s Strategic Power: Malandragem and the Roda
For the Angoleiro, the ultimate laboratory for power is the roda—the circle where Capoeira is played.
The Power of the Disfarce (Disguise/Feint): The Angoleiro operates on the principle that the most dangerous attack is the one that looks like a playful dance or a harmless movement. This is the essence of malandragem—never show your true intent. A smile and a slow, low movement can hide a devastating rasteira (sweep). This directly correlates with laws encouraging deception and masking one’s motives.
The Power of Esquiva (Evasion): The ability to not be there when the blow lands is the highest form of defense. In the Angoleiro’s world, energy is conserved, and the opponent’s force is made to expend itself on empty air. This is a profound power—the power of not engaging, of allowing the aggressor to defeat themselves. It is the ultimate expression of the Law of Least Effort applied to conflict.
The Power of the Tempo (Timing and Rhythm): An Angoleiro’s power is tied to their ability to control the rhythm of the game. They will slow the game down, hypnotize the opponent with their caxixi (rattles) and berimbau (musical bow), and then explode into action when the opponent’s attention wavers. Power is not just strength; it is the mastery of time—the strategic application of presence and absence to break the enemy’s concentration and balance.
Ultimately, the Angoleiro’s interpretation of a Law of Power is an internal one. It is the realization that the greatest power lies not in controlling others, but in controlling oneself, one’s intention, and one’s rhythm, making the external world an extension of one’s own subtle, subversive game. The true Angoleiro is the embodiment of fluid, resilient, and utterly unpredictable power.
“There are not more than five musical notes, yet the combinations of these five give rise to more melodies than can ever be heard. There are not more than five primary colours, yet in combination, they produce more hues than can ever been seen. There are not more than five cardinal tastes, yet combinations of them yield more flavours than can ever be tasted.” ― Sun Tzu, The Art of War“
Capoeira Angola is a defensive martial art known for its intricate trap-like defenses designed to catch opponents off guard and provide fluidity in movement. It encompasses 8 basic defenses, each with unique unexpected attacks and counter-attacks based on the opponent’s positioning, which are essential for creating opportunities during a confrontation. Mastery of these movements enables capoeiristas to defend against individuals carrying various weapons, including sticks, clubs, knives, and potentially even firearms with the appropriate skills; by understanding the principles of anatomy, timing, and rhythm, practitioners can enhance their ability to react swiftly and effectively. Furthermore, the art form emphasizes not only physical technique but also the mental aspects of strategy and awareness, allowing capoeiristas to anticipate an opponent’s actions and respond accordingly, making it a holistic approach to self-defense that integrates body and mind.
Today, I’m gonna “type” about one of the most fundamental techniques, one of the “trademarks” if you will, of Capoeira Angola, the RABO – DE – ARRAIA.
Rabo de arraia (stingray’s tail) is a key technique in capoeira involving inverted kicks over the head, reminiscent of a stingray’s strike, characterized by its fluid motion and dynamic execution. This kick is often seen as the most associated with capoeira, serving not only as an offensive maneuver but also as a means of showcasing the practitioner’s agility and finesse. While executing the rabo de arraia, the capoeirista must maintain a deep understanding of balance and timing, which are crucial for delivering the kick effectively.
Moreover, it includes various movements that seamlessly blend into the overall flow of the game, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the performance. It is regarded as one of the most powerful and effective capoeira kicks and stands out as a signature move, alongside the RASTEIRA, which further highlights the versatility of a capoeirista’s arsenal. A capoeirista’s skill level is often judged by how hard and fast they can perform it, as the beauty of this move lies not only in its impact but also in the seamless integration into the rhythm and spontaneity of the game, reflecting the cultural richness of capoeira.
Rabo – De – Arraia is a parent term includes following major techniques:
MEIA LUA DE COMPASSO with its variations, the traditional rabo-de-arraia in capoeira Angola.
The kick is done with the heel, a technique that is not only unique but also adds a distinct flair to the player’s arsenal. It is extensively used in the “low game,” a traditional sport that emphasizes agility and precision.
In the “inside game” of capoeira, players are in close proximity, which requires cunning and strategic thinking to outsmart one another. A lapse in attention can lead to serious consequences, particularly because kicks to the head, like the rabo de arraia, are more effective in this position, often catching opponents off guard and demonstrating the importance of precision and timing.
Certain movements like rabo de arraia (meia lua de compasso and scorpion kick) originated from the African martial art n’golo. These acrobatic maneuvers not only showcase the physical prowess of practitioners but also reflect a deep cultural heritage intertwined with spiritual beliefs. Inverted positions, foundational to these techniques, likely stem from Bantu Ngangas using handstands to emulate ancestors who walked on their hands in the spirit realm, serving as a bridge between the physical world and the spiritual. This practice highlights the significance of body movement as a form of communication and connection to ancestral lineage.
In engolo, spinning kicks performed with hands on the ground are referred to as okuminunina or okusanene komima, illustrating the unique blend of artistry and combat that defines this martial art, where each technique is rich with historical context and meaning, often telling a story of resilience and cultural identity.
In this post, I explore the combination of two blog series, MALANDROS IN ACTION and MARTIAL ARTS THEATER, through a remarkable 1980s comedy that features a witty character, Nicky Finn, who navigates various situations with street smarts and charm. Nicky’s adventurous spirit and unorthodox problem-solving methods not only entertain but also highlight the complexities of urban life during that era. As one of the first portrayals of a malandro I encountered, I was captivated by his cleverness and adaptability, all while remaining blissfully unaware of the term malandro. This character exemplifies the quintessential rogue archetype, and his journey provides a lens through which we can examine the interplay between humor and heroism in a rapidly changing world. Through Nicky Finn’s escapades, the nuances of the malandro culture begin to unfold, offering insights into both personal ambition and the dynamics of community.
Well, I think so anyway.
“Madonna is sexy and funny – a very engaging comedian,” Vincent Canby of The New York Times wrote of her work in Who’s That Girl. The music/movie superstar displays kicky comic flair and sings four terrific soundtrack tunes (Causing a Commotion, The Look of Love, Can’t Stop and the title song). Griffin Dunne co-stars as an uptight, soon-to-wed attorney whose mild lifestyle swerves into the path of uproarious oncoming traffic courtesy of Nikki. This frisky caper proves screwball comedy is alive and swell.
MW SYNOPSIS: A year after “Shanghai Surprise,” Madonna stars in the comedy “Who’s That Girl?” as the spirited and determined Nikki Finn, who has just been released from prison after serving time for a wrongful conviction for murder. In her quest for freedom and justice, Nikki is drawn into a whirlwind of chaos and unexpected encounters.
Wealthy lawyer Loudon, who is poised to marry the snobby and status-obsessed Wendy, is assigned the challenging task of escorting Nikki out of town under the watchful eye of her disapproving father-in-law, the powerful Simon Worthington, who is determined to keep his family’s reputation intact. However, instead of a smooth transition, Nikki, fueled by a desire for revenge and a burning need for answers about her mysterious friend Johnny, intertwines herself into Loudon’s meticulously planned life.
This leads to a series of chaotic events that not only upend Loudon’s relationships but also force him to confront his own desires and values. Among the madness is a runaway Cougar, part of an elaborate scheme by Loudon’s eccentric boss, Montgomery Bell, that adds another layer of hilarity and urgency. As tensions rise and the stakes get higher, Loudon finds himself in a comical yet profound dilemma, ultimately having to choose between the secure life he envisioned with Wendy and the wild, unpredictable adventure that Nikki represents.
I saw this well-done video this morning and decided to post it here, because when I first made this PAGE here on Jogo Corpo Fechado, I weighed in on this debate.
This video presents compelling arguments and carefully selected examples, making it an excellent resource for anyone looking to engage with the issues surrounding our societal narratives. By sharing it, I hope to spark more discussions and invite further reflections from all of you who visit this space, allowing us collectively to dissect the themes that are so crucial in today’s world.
From his Biracial Coptic Upper Egyptian/American perspective, YouTube user Metta Beshay evaluates Afrocentrism through comprehensive historical and cultural evidence, placing a particular emphasis on the significant contributions of Cheikh Anta Diop’s work and the nuanced racial representation in Jada Pinkett Smith’s Cleopatra film.
He meticulously investigates the complex racial identity of ancient and modern Egyptians by utilizing ancient population reports alongside Ptolemaic Greek census data, which provides crucial insights into the demographics of that era. Through this comprehensive analysis, Metta elucidates the various interwoven factors that shaped the identities of these diverse communities over time, revealing how historical narratives have been constructed, sometimes distorted, and often selectively remembered.
He delves into the socio-political context of each time period, highlighting the influences of migration, trade, and conquest that have contributed to the fluid nature of identity. Furthermore, he encourages viewers to explore the topic more deeply by providing numerous resources on Afrocentrism, Egyptian racial identity, and Egyptology, thereby fostering a richer understanding of the intricate social dynamics that have influenced perceptions of race within Egyptian history.
This exploration not only sheds light on the past but also invites a critical reflection on contemporary issues regarding identity and multiculturalism, prompting discussions that remain relevant in today’s multicultural societies. By examining historical contexts and their influences, we gain insights into the complexities of cultural identities and the ways they intersect in diverse communities. Furthermore, this dialogue encourages individuals to confront their biases and assumptions, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of different perspectives. As we navigate an increasingly globalized world, the necessity for inclusive conversations becomes paramount, paving the way for social cohesion and mutual respect among varying cultural backgrounds.
Welcome to MARTIAL ARTS THEATER, a vibrant platform for martial arts enthusiasts where we explore various disciplines, including karate, taekwondo, Krav Maga, Muay Thai, etc. As we delve deeper into the rich history, intricate philosophy, and advanced techniques of these diverse arts, we celebrate the discipline, dedication, and cultural significance they embody. Through expert interviews, instructional videos, and community events, we aim to provide insightful resources and foster a supportive network for practitioners of all levels, from beginners to seasoned masters. Join us on this exciting journey through the world of martial arts, where you can cultivate your skills, share your experiences, and connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for this empowering and transformative discipline.
Today, a renowned Qi Gong master embarks on a transformative journey to his Chinese homeland with his young granddaughter, a spirited and eager learner. As they traverse the picturesque landscapes imbued with ancient traditions, she will not only learn the secrets of Kung Fu but also uncover the rich tapestry of her heritage.
Alongside her training, the master finds himself confronting the echoes of his tumultuous past, as memories of his childhood and the struggles he once faced resurface, vividly replaying in his mind like an old film. This journey becomes a profound exploration of their intertwined fates, a labyrinth of emotions and experiences that shape their identities, allowing them both to grow and heal in ways they never expected. Each step they take together not only strengthens their relationship but also unearths lessons from the past that resonate with the present, creating a harmonious symphony of growth and resilience.
“There are not more than five musical notes, yet the combinations of these five give rise to more melodies than can ever be heard. There are not more than five primary colours, yet in combination, they produce more hues than can ever been seen. There are not more than five cardinal tastes, yet combinations of them yield more flavours than can ever be tasted.” ― Sun Tzu, The Art of War“
Capoeira Angola is a defensive martial art known for its intricate trap-like defenses designed to catch opponents off guard and provide fluidity in movement. It encompasses 8 basic defenses, each with unique unexpected attacks and counter-attacks based on the opponent’s positioning, which are essential for creating opportunities during a confrontation. Mastery of these movements enables capoeiristas to defend against individuals carrying various weapons, including sticks, clubs, knives, and potentially even firearms with the appropriate skills; by understanding the principles of anatomy, timing, and rhythm, practitioners can enhance their ability to react swiftly and effectively. Furthermore, the art form emphasizes not only physical technique but also the mental aspects of strategy and awareness, allowing capoeiristas to anticipate an opponent’s actions and respond accordingly, making it a holistic approach to self-defense that integrates body and mind.
Today, I’m gonna “type” about one of the most fundamental techniques, one of the “trademarks” if you will, of Capoeira Angola, the RASTEIRA.
“When you understand the rasteira you are very close to understanding the philosophy behind the art form known as capoeira. […] The rasteira represents the victory of knowledge over brute force, of shrewdness over strength. It is the weapon of the weak against the strong, of the oppressed against the oppressor.”
Rasteira is a foot sweep technique in capoeira that typically counters high kicks and disrupts the opponent’s balance by using their own force against them. It is fundamental in traditional capoeira and is a hallmark of an exceptional capoeirista, alongside the meia lua de compasso. Developed from the Angolan martial art engolo, rasteira can be executed from various positions.
The rasteira takedown is a defensive move performed by capoeiristas to counter an opponent’s attack, typically targeting their support leg during kicks. It involves instinctively evading the strike while sweeping the leg, often causing the attacker to fall on their back, which can be dangerous if they’re untrained. Mastering the rasteira enables one to effectively deal with aggressive opponents, and it is said, “The harder they come, the harder they fall.”
In friendly contexts, one can feign the move without actual contact, but targeting hands during handstands or cartwheels can result in serious injuries and should be avoided. Engaging in such playful interactions might seem harmless, yet the risk of causing an accident remains significant, especially if the individual performing the maneuver is not fully aware of their surroundings. It is crucial to emphasize safety and proper technique, as even a slight miscalculation during these activities can lead to falls or strains. Therefore, participants should exercise caution and communicate effectively about their intentions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
The rasteira can be performed with one, two, or no hands on the ground. The variations of rasteira include:
crouching sweep (rasteira do chão)
back crouching sweep (rasteira de costas)
standing sweep (banda or rasteira em pé)
back standing sweep (banda de costas)
Crouching sweep (rasteira)
The Crouching sweep, known as rasteira or rasteira do chão, is a fundamental move in capoeira. To execute it, the capoeirista drops to one leg, balancing with their arms, and bends their trunk close to their thigh. They then extend the opposite leg and make a circular motion to sweep the opponent’s foot, aiming to hook their ankle or leg and topple them if they do not react quickly enough.
Back crouching sweep (rasteira de costas)
Rasteira de costas (back sweep) is a quick crouching sweep executed from a backward rotation, aiming at the back of the opponent’s ankle in less than a second. This maneuver resembles a low Rabo de arraia and is referred to as encruzilhada (crossroads) by some authors, found in the game of batuque, while others recognize it in ngolo.
Standing sweep (rasteira em pé)
The standing sweep is primarily used against direct kicks like martelo (roundhouse kick), and is effective when the opponent’s weight is on one leg, though it’s rarely successful. To execute it, position your foot behind their supporting leg and twist to sweep their foot off the ground. This technique is also referred to as banda or banda de frente, with the latter sometimes indicating a different method that involves using the knee of the attacking leg to push the opponent’s legs forward.
Back standing sweep (banda de costas)
Banda de costas (back band) is a takedown technique where the player thrusts forward to land on one foot and performs a back sweep using their heel to trip the opponent, leading to a loss of balance and a fall. It is most effective when sweeping both legs but is challenging against experienced opponents. This technique often serves as a counter against kicks like queixada and armada or during unexpected moments in a game.
Grass cutter (corta-capim)
Corta-capim (grass cutter) is a specific foot sweep technique often used in uneven fights, where one person confronts multiple opponents. The capoeirista lowers their body to one leg and violently extends the other leg to sweep the opponent. From queda de quatro, the fighter sweeps one leg in a semi-circle to target the opponent’s planted foot, similar to a rasteira, also aiming to lock onto the opponent’s foot for effective takedowns.
As a child, Mestre João Grande saw some guys doing corta capim in the street, and heard: “Do that movement to a person and the person will fall.” That sparked his lifelong interest in capoeira.
This very special takedown of old capoeira is used mostly as a floreo today.
Rasteiras de Mao
Rasteira is a simple yet effective capoeira move that involves placing your hands firmly on the ground while using your legs to create momentum. As you rotate your leg at a 180º angle, the objective is to strategically knock down the opponent, creating an opening for follow-up maneuvers. This move not only showcases agility but also requires precise timing and body control, making it a fundamental technique in the capoeira practitioner’s repertoire. Mastering the rasteira can greatly enhance one’s ability to fluidly transition between offensive and defensive postures during a match.
Welcome to MALICIA AS A GAME OF POWER, a comprehensive blog series dedicated to exploring the multifaceted nature of strategy in our interactions. In this series, we will delve deep into the art of effective communication, highlighting essential techniques for conflict resolution and fostering meaningful connections with others in both personal and professional realms. Additionally, we will provide insightful tips on how to identify and avoid scammers, equipping you with the knowledge to protect yourself from online fraud. By discussing the importance of maintaining a secure online presence, we aim to empower you with the tools necessary to navigate the digital world safely and confidently. Join us as we embark on this enlightening journey together.
Navigating the world we live in can be challenging. In this series, we will share practical guidance on making informed decisions, embracing opportunities, and overcoming obstacles on the path to success. Whether it’s negotiation, identifying manipulation, or honing leadership skills, this series will equip you with the knowledge to thrive in interpersonal dynamics and strategic decision-making. We will also explore personal branding, self-presentation, and managing online reputation, empowering you to craft a compelling image in today’s digital world. Join us as we unravel the complexities of power dynamics and relations, arming you with the expertise to emerge victorious in your pursuits.
In this installment, we will explore the 15th law of power in the book, the 48 laws of power by Robert Greene. You can but a copy by clicking HERE.
Law 15: Crush your enemy totally
More is lost through stopping halfway; this reveals a critical truth about the importance of perseverance and unwavering determination in our pursuits. To truly succeed, we must never falter nor waver in our resolve, as half-hearted efforts yield only disappointment and regret. Instead, we must crush your enemy in body and spirit, not solely in the physical realm but also in the battlefield of the mind. Every challenge we face tests our limits, demanding resilience and a steadfast approach to overcome obstacles that may seem insurmountable. Each step forward, no matter how small, brings us closer to our goals, reinforcing the belief that persistence is vital in the pursuit of excellence. Therefore, let us embrace the journey, knowing that the trials we endure shape our character and strengthen our resolve, forging a path toward ultimate victory and fulfillment.
Victory comes to those who understand that a complete and total commitment is required to dominate every obstacle and challenge that life presents, leaving no room for doubt or fear to linger. This unwavering dedication is essential, for it fuels the fire of perseverance that allows individuals to push through moments of hardship and uncertainty.
Only then can one revel in the sweet taste of true triumph, standing not just victorious, but unassailable, embracing the myriad experiences that have shaped this moment. In the journey of life, each triumph builds upon the last, forging a path of resilience and strength, where every setback is merely a stepping stone to greater accomplishments, leading to a profound sense of fulfillment and purpose. This intricate tapestry woven from challenges and victories illuminates the way forward, highlighting the importance of perseverance and the lessons learned along the way.
As one reflects on the struggles endured, the victories taste even sweeter, encompassing not just personal growth, but also a deep understanding of the human spirit’s unwavering ability to overcome adversity. The journey is not merely about individual achievements; it’s a celebration of the shared experiences that connect us all in our quests for greatness, fostering a sense of community and mutual support that inspires one to reach even higher.
The Fifteenth Law of Power: Crush Your Enemy Totally, as examined through the unique lens of an Angoleiro—a practitioner of Capoeira Angola.
This exploration delves into how the Machiavellian principle of completely annihilating opposition—leaving no room for recovery or revenge—translates, conceptually and philosophically, into the world of Capoeira Angola. The Angoleiro, rather than focusing on physical destruction, interprets “crushing the enemy” as achieving a complete and undeniable victory within the roda (the circle where Capoeira is played), a victory rooted in strategic mastery, psychological dominance, and the preservation of the art’s cultural integrity.
The Angoleiro’s Interpretation of “Total Crushing”:
Strategic Annihilation (The Game of Chess): For the Angoleiro, the true “crushing” is not the knockout punch, but the complete dismantling of the opponent’s strategy. It involves anticipating every move (prevenção), controlling the tempo (o ritmo), and systematically closing off all viable offensive and defensive options through the strategic use of movements like caminhar (walking) and low, deceptive rasteiras (sweeps). The opponent is “crushed” when they realize they are entirely trapped, unable to play their own game.
Psychological Dominance (The Art of Deception): A total defeat in Capoeira Angola is often psychological. The Angoleiro uses a combination of slowness, trickery (malícia), and feints to lure the opponent into a false sense of security or to commit too early. The “crushing” occurs when the opponent’s confidence shatters, and their movements become hesitant, predictable, or desperate. The mastery of the jogo de dentro (the game played close to the ground) ensures this mental submission.
Cultural and Historical Context (The Law of the Roda): Unlike the brutal power dynamics of the political realm, the Angoleiro’s application of the Law of Power is tempered by the foundational rules of the roda. “Crushing” means achieving technical superiority so profound that the roda itself—the collective judgment of the masters and fellow players—recognizes the absolute dominance of one player. This ensures that the victory serves to elevate the art, not just the ego, of the victor. The loss, though total, must still respect the opponent’s life and role in the community, preventing unnecessary physical harm while ensuring the lesson of defeat is absolute.
Why are Black girls and women four times more likely to go missing than their counterparts? This alarming statistic not only highlights the deep-rooted issues of systemic racism and discrimination in our society, but it also raises critical questions about the lack of attention and resources dedicated to their safety. Various factors contribute to this troubling trend, including socioeconomic disparities, vulnerabilities faced by marginalized communities, and insufficient media coverage when they do go missing. Additionally, the intersectionality of race and gender amplifies the risks that Black girls and women face, leading to a cycle of neglect and invisibility. The systemic barriers in accessing support systems, such as law enforcement and social services, further exacerbate their plight, often resulting in delayed investigations and a lack of urgency in finding those who are missing. Furthermore, cultural narratives and societal perceptions contribute to the dismissive attitudes towards their disappearances, making it imperative that we confront and challenge these biases in order to advocate for better protection and support for these vulnerable populations. Addressing these disparities is crucial not only for the safety of Black girls and women but also for the overall justice and equity in our society.
To protect marginalized communities, we must raise awareness of their unique challenges and hardships, advocate for comprehensive policies that address systemic inequalities affecting education, healthcare, and employment opportunities, and support organizations that are actively tackling these disparities through funding, outreach programs, and education on social justice initiatives. Additionally, fostering representation in decision-making processes is crucial, as it ensures that the voices of those impacted by these issues are heard and valued.
Engaging in community-building activities and promoting allyship among different societal groups can further strengthen our collective efforts to combat injustice. The videostream below offers additional options for understanding these important themes and how you can contribute to meaningful change.
Shout out to Rob Doggett for making this presentation.
Rob Doggett is the Founder of Ijakadi African Martial Arts and AfricanMartialArts.com for the liberation and restoration of our African cultural identity. Ijakadi is a combat science and a way of life for people of African descent. Rob has been teaching African Martial Arts every week at Brikhouse Boxing in Portsmouth, VA and now does workshops throughout the Hampton Roads Area. He is also a member of the Afrikan War College and the Amos Wilson Collective. A practitioner of both 52 Blocks and Afro-Brazilian Capoeira, Rob’s a certified Jeet Kune Do Instructor, certified Kickboxing Coach, and former certified USA Boxing Coach. He has fought as an amateur kickboxer and traveled all over the world from Japan to Korea, China, and Africa training with some of the best in the world. However, his proudest accomplishment is the daily inspiration he provides to our youth online and in his workshops.
If you want to know more about him and his work, please checkout his website, africanmartialarts.com
We need to Bring Awareness to this Topic because the alarming rates of missing Black girls have been largely overlooked in our society. It is essential for us to shine a light on this issue, not only to support the families affected but also to encourage action and accountability among authorities. By raising awareness, we can foster a community dialogue that emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the safety and well-being of all children, particularly those from marginalized groups.
Increased visibility through strategic social media campaigns, community partnerships, and dedicated educational initiatives can significantly help combat the prolonged silence surrounding this crisis, ensuring that the lives, experiences, and poignant stories of missing Black girls are not only acknowledged but also treated with the urgency and respect they deserve.
By engaging a wider audience through these platforms, we can foster a collective awareness and action that drives communities to confront the underlying issues contributing to this ongoing problem. Empowering local organizations and stakeholders to collaborate on awareness programs and utilizing creative storytelling methods can further amplify these narratives, inviting more individuals to participate in meaningful discussions and advocate for systemic change that protects these vulnerable populations.
Jogo Corpo Fechado 