Anybody who knows me knows that I don’t really care about Turkey Day (Even though it’s delicious), but I do care about the message behind it. This holiday often emphasizes gratitude and togetherness, reminding us to reflect on the positives in our lives, even amidst the chaos of everyday routines. While the feast can be hearty and satisfying, what truly resonates with me is the opportunity to gather with loved ones and appreciate the bonds we share. It serves as a gentle reminder to cherish the moments spent with family and friends, fostering a sense of unity and love that transcends the festive meal itself.
So, I want to send this little reminder for everyone.
Regardless of what this day means for you, we all must learn and practice giving thanks and love to those in our lives. The connections between each other are so meaningful, reminding us that our bonds form a tapestry of shared experiences, hopes, and dreams. This reality underscores that this is as much a collective journey as it is a solo one.
In our individual quest for growth and understanding, we must recognize the value of community and support, for they provide strength and encouragement in ways that we cannot achieve alone. The journey of self-discovery is often fraught with challenges, and attempting to traverse this intricate path solo can lead to feelings of isolation and struggle; it is vital to engage with others, share our insights, and collaborate in ways that foster mutual enrichment and healing. By coming together in shared experiences and opening ourselves to the perspectives of others, we tap into a wellspring of knowledge and resilience that transcends our individual limitations.
By reaching out, offering kindness, and cultivating relationships, we not only empower ourselves but also uplift those around us, creating a ripple effect of positivity and transformation that can inspire change both within and beyond our immediate circles. As we nurture these connections, we weave a fabric of support that can withstand the trials of life, reminding us that we are part of a larger tapestry where every thread contributes to the beauty of the whole. Furthermore, the act of supporting one another reinforces our own learning and personal growth, deepening our understanding of ourselves and the world around us. Engaging in dialogue and exchanging experiences not only broadens our horizons but also enriches our emotional states, igniting a passion for collaboration that can lead to innovative ideas and solutions. In cultivating this network of support, we establish a sanctuary of trust and respect, a safe space where vulnerability is encouraged and celebrated, allowing us to share our fears and aspirations without the weight of judgment. This collective spirit fosters a sense of belonging that is essential for mental well-being, propelling us to face life’s uncertainties with greater courage and optimism. Ultimately, it is through these meaningful interactions and shared journeys that we can create lasting impacts, not only enhancing our own lives but also lighting the way for future generations to follow suit in their pursuits of growth and community engagement.
However, if you REALLY HAVE A NEED to learn about Turkey Day…
Kobina Ackon, known as Wode Maya, is a notable Ghanaian Vlogger and YouTuber renowned for his engaging and insightful videos that showcase African culture and lifestyle. With a degree in Aeronautical Engineering from Shenyang Aerospace University, China, he successfully combines his technical knowledge with his passion for storytelling. Over the years, he has established a thriving niche in social media content creation, captivating audiences with his unique perspective and relatable content. His channel has experienced tremendous growth, amassing over a million subscribers in just a few years, a testament to his ability to connect with viewers and shed light on the beauty and vibrancy of the African continent. As an advocate for positive representation, Wode Maya aims to inspire the youth and foster a greater appreciation for African heritage through his work.
Click HERE to visit his YouTube channel for engaging videos that highlight his exceptional talents and provide valuable insights on various topics, from cultural experiences to personal growth. Through his unique storytelling and vibrant personality, he captivates viewers while fostering a deeper understanding of diverse perspectives, making the channel a must-visit for anyone eager to be inspired and entertained. Whether you’re looking for entertaining lifestyle content, educational discussions, or just a dose of positivity, Wode Maya’s videos consistently deliver an enriching experience that keeps audiences coming back for more.
So, why am I posting Wode Maya’s videos here?
The image of Africa has been distorted globally, leading to misconceptions that fail to capture the true essence of this vibrant continent. However, efforts are underway to change these narratives through engaging YouTube videos that provide authentic insights into the region’s diverse culture, rich history, and remarkable achievements. By highlighting local stories, traditions, and the unique lifestyles of various communities, these videos aim not only to dismantle stereotypes but also to enrich global perceptions of the African experience, showcasing the continent’s rich tapestry of languages, art forms, and culinary delights. Through this medium, viewers are invited to explore the continent’s natural beauty, from the breathtaking landscapes of the savannahs to the bustling markets steeped in cultural significance, all of which contribute to a more nuanced and appreciative understanding of Africa’s multifaceted identity. In doing so, these videos play a crucial role in fostering connections, sparking curiosity, and promoting a deeper conversation about the continent’s place in the global narrative.
These narratives ensure that African voices tell their own history, celebrating unsung heroes and fostering appreciation for diverse cultures that have often been overlooked. This reclamation process empowers future generations by instilling a sense of pride in their heritage and identity, while simultaneously encouraging a more nuanced understanding of Africa, emphasizing its resilience and innovation across various sectors, including technology, arts, and social movements. As these authentic representations circulate and gain traction, they contribute to a broader dialogue that challenges prevailing misconceptions and highlights the continent’s vibrant potential. Moreover, the promotion of these stories not only preserves the rich tapestry of Africa’s past but also paves the way for new narratives that showcase the continent’s dynamic present and promising future. By actively engaging young people in the storytelling process, we not only enrich their cultural education but also inspire them to become agents of change, capable of driving social progress. This interconnected approach fosters a deep appreciation for the continent’s diverse narratives, empowering individuals to take ownership of their stories and advocate for their communities on both local and global stages. Ultimately, these efforts create a more inclusive and accurate representation of Africa that resonates with audiences worldwide, encouraging a collective journey towards healing and understanding.
“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 that combines a rich cultural history with physical agility and mental discipline. It features 8 basic defenses, each designed with specific techniques that incorporate unique attacks and counters, empowering practitioners to effectively defend against various weapons. This dynamic art form not only emphasizes the importance of movement and rhythm but also teaches the value of strategy and adaptability in combat situations. By mastering these techniques, individuals can gain confidence in their ability to protect themselves while simultaneously enjoying the artistic expression that Capoeira Angola offers in its fluid and graceful movements.
And today, we’re gonna talk about the ROLE.
Rolê is a basic movement in the Roda, performed from Ginga or esquivas, where the capoeirista spins to the side, staying low and watchful of the opponent’s movements. During the rotation, he maintains eye contact with the adversary through his legs, which is crucial for anticipating their next actions and maintaining defensive readiness. This continuous visual connection not only enhances the capoeirista’s awareness of his surroundings but also establishes a psychological edge over the opponent.
The rolê can end in various positions such as roxana, Negativa, or other esquivas, each presenting unique defensive or offensive opportunities for countering or retreating, providing capoeiristas with a multitude of strategic options. Among its numerous variations, the Rolê de Cabeça stands out distinctly, as it involves placing the head on the ground, which not only enables smooth transitions into inverted techniques like the aú or even the macaco but also allows practitioners to execute dazzling aerial maneuvers that captivate audiences and instill fear in opponents. This versatility expands the repertoire of movements within the game, making it vital for practitioners to explore every facet of the rolê and its applications.
Moreover, mastery of the rolê and its various transitions is fundamental for any aspiring capoeirista, as it enhances agility and fluidity in their movements while simultaneously improving balance and spatial awareness. This foundational skill serves not only as a technical basis for performance but also as a gateway to deeper levels of expression within the art form. As practitioners become more skilled, the rolê allows them to experiment with different rhythms and styles, creating a unique signature in their practice. This expanded use of the rolê enables a dynamic and unpredictable style during combat, fostering an environment where creativity thrives and adaptability becomes key to overcoming challenges faced within the roda. Additionally, engaging in the rolê can cultivate a sense of camaraderie among capoeiristas, facilitating a shared journey of growth and mutual support as they explore the limitless possibilities inherent in capoeira.
Many discussions on global religious and spiritual practices often overlook Sub-Saharan Africa, and when addressed, it is usually negatively; this series aims to change that perception by highlighting the rich tapestry of beliefs and traditions that thrive in this region. From the diverse array of indigenous faiths to the profound influence of world religions such as Christianity and Islam, Sub-Saharan Africa is home to a vibrant cultural heritage that reflects a deep connection to spirituality and community. By showcasing the unique rituals, philosophies, and the stories of practitioners from various backgrounds, we hope to foster a greater appreciation for the complexity and beauty of spiritual life in this often-misunderstood part of the world.
In this installment..
The importance of African centered Spirituality in the Black Community is questioned amidst the presence of Christianity, Islam, Judaism, and Atheism. Many individuals find themselves in a struggle to reconcile their ancestral traditions with the prevailing faiths around them, leading to a rich but complex dialogue about identity and worship.
There’s a dilemma of whether to practice traditions like Ifa, Yoruba, Kemetic, Igbo, or Vodun while also grappling with the significance of established faiths like Jesus, Allah, and Yah. This tension not only influences personal beliefs but also impacts community dynamics, creating a space for both conflict and unity as people seek to honor their roots while remaining true to their spiritual journeys. As individuals explore the rich tapestry of their ancestral customs, they often find themselves negotiating their identities in relation to modern societal values and expectations.
The interplay between these ancient traditions and contemporary faith systems can lead to profound reflections on spirituality, identity, and community, as adherents strive to harmonize the teachings and practices of their heritage with the more widely accepted beliefs that shape the world around them. This complex landscape invites dialogue and introspection, encouraging a deeper understanding of the significance of faith across different cultures and the shared human experience that transcends time and space. Ultimately, this exploration fosters a sense of belonging and empowerment, as individuals navigate their paths in a world that increasingly values diversity and inclusivity, celebrating the richness brought forth by differing perspectives on the divine and the ancestral.
As the conversation evolves, understanding and respect for diverse pathways become crucial, fostering an environment where African centered Spirituality can coexist alongside other belief systems, enriching the collective experience of the Black Community.
Shoutout to the Ijakadi African Martial Arts YouTube channel for creating this video. If you want to know more about them click HERE,
AfricanMartialArts.comoffers Ijakadi African Martial Arts, a comprehensive at-home program that covers various techniques such as footwork, striking, grappling, and weapons, rooted in African culture. Users gain access to weekly video lessons, live workshops, rank testing, and more, catering to all skill levels from beginner to advanced.
TODAY, The Legendary Mestre Bimba would have been 124 years old today, a remarkable milestone that signifies not only his age but the profound impact he had on the world of capoeira. His innovative techniques and dedication to preserving the cultural heritage of this Brazilian martial art have influenced countless practitioners around the globe, ensuring that his legacy continues to inspire new generations. As we reflect on his contributions, we also recognize the importance of his teachings that emphasized not only the physical aspects of capoeira but also the values of respect, community, and resilience, which remain crucial to its practice today.
So we at Jogo de Corpo Fechado would like to celebrate by showing you this vintage video of his life and his school from the 1960’s, a period of rich development in the art form, presented by the CAPOEIRA MUSEUM OFFICIAL YouTube channel. This video, which captures the essence of Mestre Bimba’s innovative teaching methods and the vibrant culture of capoeira during that era, serves as a fantastic insight into how he shaped the contemporary practice of this martial art. Along with the video, we encourage you to read the detailed description below, which provides additional context and translations in both English and Portuguese for a deeper understanding of his legacy.
The Bimba group!! This historic video has undergone image and sound treatment, and as in many of our videos, we have added identification of the characters present and information about the material. Of course, it might require further additions, but we leave that to the comments on the videos, as that enriches each of our videos. The date is 1968 (finalization of editing), but the filming may have occurred in 1967; this is an excerpt from a documentary from the French TV INA.fr, which goes to Pelourinho to capture this historical gem for our study of capoeira. Master Bimba sits on the bench and begins to play the cavalaria while the camera captures the scenes of the graduating classes of Capoeira Regional, with photographs likely from performances and capoeira games. In addition to the famous, albeit inappropriate, posters normalized for the time, we can also see captured by the camera several painted berimbaus hanging on the wall. With only a single berimbau present, without accompaniment from pandeiros, the rhythm of the beginning of the roda is in São Bento Grande da Regional. It is noteworthy to observe the attire (clothing) worn by the capoeiristas, with or without shirts and wearing everyday trousers and shoes. We see the entrance of Atelino, the lightning of Capoeira (there is a book released by Master Itapoan featuring a long interview with him). Atelino enters the academy and crosses the roda, and we notice his significance when we see Master Saci promptly rising and conceding his place to him, who from that moment will stand next to Master Bimba (Do we notice hierarchy?). The chant “Oi sim, sim, sim, oi não, não, não” follows.
move to the foot of the Berimbau, Saci and Prada; I had heard today that in Regional, there was no squatting to enter the game, which is not what the video shows. However, we will wait for someone to explain this “contradiction” to us in the comments on the video. In the academy, we see two circles painted on the ground, a smaller one in the center and a larger one around it, both in the same colors. Sitting in the back to the right of the Master, we see Master Gigante wearing sunglasses and smoking. In the second round, we see a game accompanied only by the berimbau without the palmeado. The player is Baiano Anzol (wearing black pants, who takes a header) with…? – Master Baiano Anzol states: “In this recording, they gave a meia lua that hit the camera, and it took two months to bring another lens and continue the recording work” (Text from the Master on his YouTube). When the third round begins, Atelino enters with the “bode” (pandeiro) to accompany the berimbau, starting off-cross so that the Master can accompany him with the berimbau, resulting in only one berimbau and one pandeiro. Master Bimba begins his chant, “Oi, Sim, Sim, Sim, Oi Não, Não, Não”… now with participation in the chorus from his “pastoras,” including his wife Dona Alice. The palmeado happens in Ijexá’s rite (1, 2, 3) and in the palm of terreiro. The chant changes to “Vou dizer a meu senhor, que a manteiga derramô” and we see the third pair at the foot of the berimbau, Camisa Roxa and Saci. In the background, behind the Master, standing, we see Master Piloto, and nearby, sitting on the bench in a white shirt, is Dr. Decanio. I “believe” the source of research was Grupo de Estudo Regional Baiana (WhatsApp) – ADM – Leco/Laecio Souza.
A turma de Bimba!! Esse vídeo histórico recebeu tratamento de imagem e som e ainda acrescentamos como em muitos vídeos nossos a identificação dos personagens presentes e informações sobre o material, claro que pode carecer de mais acréscimos, mas isso deixamos por conta dos comentários aos vídeos, pois é o que deixa mais rico cada vídeo nosso. A data é 1968 (finalização da edição) porém as filmagens possam ter ocorrido em 1967, esse é um trecho de um documentário da TV francesa INA.fr e que vai até ao Pelourinho registrar essa preciosidade histórica para nosso estudo da capoeira. Mestre Bimba senta no banco e inicia o toque de cavalaria em quanto a Câmara registra os quadros das turmas de formados da Capoeira Regional, fotografias provavelmente de apresentações e jogos de capoeira, para além dos famosos cartazes menos próprios, mas normalizados para a época, podemos ver captados pela câmara ainda, alguns berimbaus pintados pendurados na parede. Com a presença apenas de um único berimbau, sem acompanhamento de pandeiros o ritmo do início da roda é em São bento Grande da Regional, é de se notar a indumentária (roupas) que os capoeira utilizam, com ou sem camisa e utilizando caças e calçados do dia a dia, notamos a entrada de Atelino, o relâmpago da Capoeira (Existe um livro lançado pelo Mestre Itapoan com uma longa entrevista com o mesmo), Atelino adentra a academia e atravessa a roda, nota-se seu grau de importância quando vemos o Mestre saci prontamente levantando-se e cedendo o lugar para ele, que desse momento em diante seguirá ao lado do Mestre Bimba (Notamos hierarquia? ) Segue-se o corrido “Oi sim, sim, sim, oi não, não, não”…
Seguem para o pé do Berimbau Saci e Prada, eu já havia ouvido nos dias de hoje, falarem que na Regional não existia agachamento para sair para o jogo, não é o que o vídeo mostra, no entretanto vamos esperar que alguém nos explique essa “contradição” aqui nos comentários ao vídeo. Na academia vemos dois círculos pintados no chão, um menor no centro e um maior em volta, os dois nas mesmas cores. Sentado ao fundo no lado direito do Mestre vemos o Mestre Gigante de óculos escuro e fumando. Na segunda volta vemos um jogo acompanhado somente pelo berimbau sem o palmeado. Quem está jogando é Baiano Anzol (calça preta, que leva uma cabeçada) com ..? – Mestre Baiano Anzol afirma que: ” Nessa gravação deram uma meia lua que acertou a câmara e levaram dois meses pra trazer outra lente e continuar o trabalho de gravação” (Texto do Mestre em seu Youtube). Quando começa a terceira volta, Atelino entra com o “bode” (pandeiro) para acompanhar o berimbau, começando atravessado fazendo com o que o Mestre o acompanhe com o berimbau, ficando unicamente um berimbau e um pandeiro. O Mestre Bimba começa seu corrido, “Oi, Sim, Sim, Sim, Oi Não, Não, Não”… e agora já com participação no coro, das suas “pastoras”, entre elas sua mulher Dona Alice. O palmeado se dar no rito Ijexá (1, 2, 3) e na palma de terreiro. O corrido muda para “Vou dizer a meu senhor, que a manteiga derramô” e vê a terceira dupla para o pé do berimbau, Camisa Roxa e Saci. Ao fundo, atrás do Mestre, em pé, vemos o Mestre Piloto, e próximo a eles sentado no banco com uma camisa branca o Dr. Decanio. “acredito” que a fonte de pesquisa foi Grupo de Estudo Regional Baiana (Whatsapp) – ADM – Leco/Laecio Souza.
I didn’t include this in the “Malandros in action” series because this involves a whole corporation rather than just one person, which fundamentally alters the narrative’s focus and scope. By shifting the spotlight from individual actions to collective corporate behaviors, it becomes necessary to explore a myriad of complex dynamics that govern such an entity, including corporate strategies, employee interactions, and the broader impact on the community.
This more “holistic” approach would require a nuanced examination of how these corporate decisions shape lives and influence our society as a whole, potentially detracting from the intimate stories of individual malandros that I initially intended to highlight in the series.
So, let’s get this blog started.
This is the story of how Citibank caused the fall of Haiti, a tale that intertwines financial power and political instability, revealing the devastating impact of external influence on a nation struggling for autonomy.
The bank’s aggressive lending practices, coupled with exploitative interest rates, ensnared the Haitian government in a cycle of debt that ultimately stifled economic growth and led to widespread poverty. As the nation grappled with these challenges, the all-consuming grip of foreign financial institutions became evident, contributing significantly to the deterioration of societal structures and the erosion of civil rights in the pursuit of profit.
Hopefully, Haiti bounces back hard from the challenges it has faced in recent years; with its rich culture, resilient people, and abundant natural resources, there is a significant potential for recovery and growth, enabling the nation to rebuild its economy, restore its infrastructure, and enhance the quality of life for its citizens.
Welcome to “Malandros in Action,” where we explore the “Modern malandro” in contemporary society, examining their cunning strategies to evade deception. The malandro is characterized by trickery and resourcefulness, celebrated in folklore as both a cautionary figure and a symbol of rebellion, often engaging in self-serving behavior to navigate unfair circumstances, whether legal or illegal.
In this installment, we explore the exploits of Sam-Bankman-Fried.
Sam Bankman-Fried loved to scam, using his charm and intelligence to manipulate individuals and systems for his own gain while creating an illusion of trustworthiness; he cleverly crafted narratives that positioned him as a philanthropic figure in the cryptocurrency world, gaining the admiration and support of many unsuspecting investors, all the while orchestrating complex schemes that ultimately benefited only himself. Through calculated public appearances and strategic partnerships, he built a persona that masked his duplicitous intentions, drawing in victims who believed in his vision for a brighter financial future, effectively blinding them to the risks that lay beneath his charismatic facade.
This behavior ultimately led to a tangled web of deceit that left many victims in disbelief and longing for justice, as they struggled to make sense of the betrayal that shattered their trust. The ramifications of each dishonest act stretched far beyond initial lies, causing emotional turmoil and financial strain for those caught in the crossfire, affecting not just their personal lives but also their relationships and social standing. As time passed, the victims found themselves grappling with feelings of helplessness and confusion, seeking closure in a seemingly endless quest for accountability and truth. With each passing day, the shadows of doubt and regret loomed larger, making it increasingly challenging to heal from the wounds inflicted—both seen and unseen—by such egregious acts of betrayal. They began to form support networks, sharing their stories in hopes of fostering resilience, understanding, and maybe, just maybe, the justice they rightly deserved.
Welcome to TODAY IN BLACK MEDIA, your premier source for news, in-depth cultural events, and insightful discussions all from an African American perspective. We are committed to highlighting the rich and multifaceted black experiences that exist within our society, amplifying diverse voices that often go unheard, and celebrating the remarkable achievements of the black community not just locally but across the globe.
Through our platform, we invite you to delve deeper into the narratives that shape our lives, explore current affairs that impact our communities, appreciate the arts and entertainment that reflect our culture, and engage with thoughtful discussions around pressing social justice issues. Whether you’re deeply passionate about these topics or simply looking for compelling content that resonates with you on a personal level, we promise to provide a vibrant and enriching experience that fosters understanding, connection, and empowerment.
In today’s installment…
Four years ago we were told that once Trump was out of office, the racial attacks against black Americans would decline, fostering a sense of hope among communities striving for justice and equality. Instead, police murders of black citizens have gone up, revealing a distressing reality that contradicts these initial projections. The systemic issues that perpetuate these injustices have not only persisted but, in many instances, have worsened, highlighting the urgent need for reform.
Today we look at San Francisco as a case study in anti-black hate crimes, where the city’s vibrant culture and diverse population are marred by incidents that underscore the ongoing struggle against racism and brutality. This examination sheds light on the complex interplay of social, economic, and political factors that continue to fuel an environment of fear and hostility for black individuals, prompting critical conversations about accountability, community safety, and the systemic changes necessary to eradicate such violence. Furthermore, as we delve deeper into the city’s history and its current socio-economic landscape, we uncover the historical injustices that have perpetuated cycles of discrimination and exclusion. The persistent disparities in education, employment, and housing accessibility, compounded by the rising cost of living, have disproportionately impacted black communities, leading to systemic inequities that require urgent attention. Addressing these issues necessitates a holistic approach that not only involves law enforcement reform but also community engagement, resource allocation, and dedicated initiatives aimed at fostering inclusivity and healing. Only through collaborative efforts can we hope to dismantle the ingrained prejudices and stereotypes that threaten the very fabric of our society, paving the way for a more equitable future for all residents, regardless of their racial background.
Shoutout to the professor for creating an engaging video that simplifies complex topics and inspires interest in the subject. Click HERE to explore his channel for innovative, curiosity-driven content and practical educational resources.
Many discussions on global religious and spiritual practices often overlook Sub-Saharan Africa, and when addressed, it is usually negatively; this series aims to change that perception by highlighting the rich tapestry of beliefs and traditions that thrive in this region. From the diverse array of indigenous faiths to the profound influence of world religions such as Christianity and Islam, Sub-Saharan Africa is home to a vibrant cultural heritage that reflects a deep connection to spirituality and community. By showcasing the unique rituals, philosophies, and the stories of practitioners from various backgrounds, we hope to foster a greater appreciation for the complexity and beauty of spiritual life in this often-misunderstood part of the world.
In this installment…
About 45 percent of all Africans transported throughout the Americas during the transatlantic slave trade arrived from West Central Africa, including the Kongo, a region rich in cultural heritage and historical significance. This area was not only characterized by its vibrant societies and complex political structures but also by its diverse languages, art forms, and traditions that reflected the deep-rooted connections of its people to their land.
The Kongo played a pivotal role in trade networks, facilitating the exchange of goods, culture, and ideas long before the onset of the slave trade. Furthermore, the experiences and contributions of those who came from this region have profoundly influenced the cultural landscapes of the Americas, giving rise to unique blends of African, European, and Indigenous traditions that continue to resonate in music, religion, and culinary practices today.
Kôngo spirituality includes a wide variety of concepts grouped around two areas of application: divine practice and human practice. This intricate system encompasses not only rituals and beliefs but also the profound relationship between the spiritual and the material realms, reflecting the interconnectedness of life.
This lecture aims to elucidate this wealth, with regard to Palo and Bukôngo as two different schools of Kôngo spirituality, both of which offer unique perspectives and methodologies for understanding the universe and one’s place within it. The richness of Kôngo spirituality is rooted in ancient traditions and oral histories that convey wisdom through generations.
This elucidation will be attained through the interpretation of the divine initiatory process through the Kôngo cosmogram, a vital tool that visually represents the spiritual journey and its stages, allowing practitioners to navigate their path with clarity and purpose. By delving into these elements, the lecture will highlight the significance of both the divine and human aspects in the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment within the Kôngo tradition.
Today commemorates the death of Zumbi, the last king of Palmares, a quilombo founded by escaped enslaved Africans in Brazil.
This extraordinary community, which thrived in the 17th century, was not just a refuge but a powerful symbol of resistance against the brutalities of slavery and colonialism. Palmares, known for its remarkable ability to withstand repeated Dutch and Portuguese invasions, stands as a testament to the strength and resilience of those who dared to fight for their freedom and dignity.
Zumbi’s leadership was instrumental in uniting diverse groups of enslaved people, immigrants, and indigenous individuals, creating a vibrant society that valued culture, knowledge, and autonomy. This coalition fostered a unique community where different traditions blended harmoniously, allowing members to share their stories and histories while celebrating their distinct identities. As a result, Zumbi became not only a symbol of resistance against oppression but also a beacon of hope for those seeking freedom. Through organized efforts, this society cultivated a sense of belonging and camaraderie, where education and mutual support were paramount. The gatherings held in the heart of this community became crucial for strategizing against their oppressors, empowering individuals and enhancing their collective resolve to fight for justice and dignity.
As a capoeirista, I see it as my duty to resist not only in honor of Zumbi and the legacy of Palmares but also to continue the fight against modern forms of oppression that still persist today, ensuring that their spirit lives on in our struggles for justice and equality. This commitment drives me to engage actively in community organizing and education, empowering others to recognize the injustices that permeate our society.
In every movement and every stroke of my craft, I channel the voices of those who fought before us, reminding us that our art is not merely a dance but a powerful weapon against inequality. I strive to foster a sense of unity and resilience among my peers, motivating us to carry forward the torch of liberation and to confront systemic challenges with courage and creativity. Together, we embody the hope for a future where freedom, respect, and dignity are not just ideals, but lived realities for all.
Rei Zumbi de Palmares
A história nos engana
Dizendo pelo contrário
Até diz que a abolição
Aconteceu no mês de maio
A prova dessa mentira
É que da miséria eu não saio
Viva 20 de novembro
Momento pra se lembrar
Não vejo em 13 de maio
Nada pra comemorar
Muitos tempos se passaram e o negro sempre a lutar
Zumbi é nosso herói Zumbi é nosso herói, colega velho
De plamares foi senor
Pela causa do homem negro
Foi ele quem mais lutou
Apesar de toda luta, colega velho
Negro não se libertou, camarada!
The history deceives us.
Saying otherwise
Even says abolition
It happened in the month of May.
The proof of this lie
I can’t get out of misery.
Viva November 20th
Moment to remember
I do not see on May 13th.
Nothing to celebrate.
Many times have passed and the black man has always fought.
Zumbi is our hero Zumbi is our hero, dear old friend
Jogo Corpo Fechado 