Mythology in Africa and the Diaspora

By Michelle Africa is home to more than a thousand languages, and cultures. It’s no surprise to learn that a continent full of varied geography, a multitude of languages, and so many vibrant cultures has equally varied and vibrant myths. African mythology is full of interesting folklore, networks of unique gods, and colourful creatures andContinue reading “Mythology in Africa and the Diaspora”

How schools can celebrate the UN Decade for people of African descent

The UN Decade for People of African Descent is a decade which encourages the international community to recognise that people of African descent represent a distinct group who have human rights that must be promoted, protected, and preserved. It is scheduled to span the period of 2015 – 2024. People of African descent is aContinue reading “How schools can celebrate the UN Decade for people of African descent”

Black Publishing Britain

By Michelle Black British authors are severely underrepresented within UK publishing. This lack of representation is felt amongst publishing in general, but also within the reception of prestigious British literary prizes, such as the Booker prize, the Walter Scott prize, and more.  An analysis by The Guardian of the racial diversity of nominees for theContinue reading “Black Publishing Britain”

Barbados, Reparations and Justice

By Michelle What could justice look like for those deeply affected by enslavement and colonisation? The answer to this question would vary depending on who it is asked to. Barbados is one country which has begun to ask, and answer, this question. The legacy of enslavement has been at the forefront of several Caribbean countries,Continue reading “Barbados, Reparations and Justice”

The Kingdom of Kilwa Kisiwani: A Former African Economic Powerhouse

By Michelle Off the coast of the East African country of Tanzania is an island you may have never heard of. In the Kilwa District of southern Tanzania lies the ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani, an island that we now refer to as an economic powerhouse on the Swahili Coast. In this blog, we will exploreContinue reading “The Kingdom of Kilwa Kisiwani: A Former African Economic Powerhouse”

Afro Hair: School bans probably illegal says watchdog 

By Serena History of African hair + Significance Throughout shifts in history, Black hair has been twisted and muted in a variety of ways. Yet it still represents one of the strongest connections to our traditions. And the modern styling of our hair is often the closest many will get to being able to practiseContinue reading “Afro Hair: School bans probably illegal says watchdog “

Why History Should be Important to All Black People

By Michelle   There are several reasons why we, as people of African descent, must engage with, be aware of, and perhaps even internalise our history. Our narratives, the histories of those before who looked like us, and the histories of our respective ethnic groups (if applicable) are all key components of the building blocks ofContinue reading “Why History Should be Important to All Black People”

Not Everyday Shaku Shaku, Sometimes Adumu Adumu: Dance Cultures of Eastern Africa

Dance is a big part of life across the African continent. It serves many purposes; entertainment, enjoyment, religious rituals, celebrations, some are even used before warriors enter into battle. Whatever the dance is used for, the all share one characteristic – they are all very well structured and require a certain amount of talent toContinue reading “Not Everyday Shaku Shaku, Sometimes Adumu Adumu: Dance Cultures of Eastern Africa”

Mami Wata, La Sirene, Mama Dlo

Mermaids in African & Caribbean Mythology By Michelle The myth of the mermaid is a universal cultural staple. They feature in fairytales, fantasies, adventures, and the like. The concept of mysterious beings who live in the sea and other bodies of water has captivated the minds of those who live on land for milenia. TheContinue reading “Mami Wata, La Sirene, Mama Dlo”