Determined To Tell Our Story

Many Black / African-Americans, as we go about our daily lives, are isolated from community most days/weeks/months of the year. We may be the only person of color in our workplace, or the only Black / African-American in the entire company. We are certainly scarce in the areas where we live. Our community, once rich with family, friends and culture, seems to be strange and unfamiliar with rampant gentrification.

In the face of challenges and obstacles, we remain determined to make sure the surrounding area knows that we have been here and we will continue to be here. We define ourselves. We name ourselves. We create for ourselves. We speak for ourselves. This is Kujichagulia (Self-Determination). 

The Griot Party Experience is powerful in bringing us into community. We all have a story, and when we share our story, then we share our humanity--we remind others of our humanity, then healing can begin. When we have healing, then we can move forward with building our community, loving ourselves and growing our future.

We are determined to be safe and whole within our community. Black / African-American people are connecting to one another. We are creating businesses and spending money with one another. We are contributing our physical, emotional and social resources to our community.

There is healing going on in our community. It happens when we are open to having hard or difficult conversations. It occurs when we are by ourselves, or together with friends, family, or even strangers. Healing begins when we are ready. Be ready!