The Importance of the African American Family
Family is an integral part of African American culture. Back when slavery was the order of the day, many African American families suffered, as children were forcefully taken away from their parents. Homes were broken, and loved ones became lost ones. Several African Americans who bonded emotionally by the same fate made it their life purpose to earn enough money, find those they lost, and buy back their freedom. The admirable bond of love and commitment reflected in many African American homes today can be traced back to the horrific experience our ancestors suffered during the slave trade era.
The importance of family cannot be overemphasised; it creates an atmosphere of unconditional love and a sense of belonging for both the parents and children. Family members imbed cultural and moral values that make up a person's behavioural characteristics. This article highlights some of the unique benefits of being a part of an average African American family.
A well of inspiration
African American history has a long list of notable leaders with inspiring stories. Growing up in a black home, there's no limit to the number of times the names of great African American legends come up in casual conversations. Parents tell the stories, intending to highlight moral lessons and teachable qualities that their kids can emulate. Occasionally, one can draw inspiration from some of these past stories and use them as a guide on a rough path.
Tell me who wouldn’t be inspired by the tales of Martin Luther King, who died a hero, changing the world with his unwavering commitment to racial justice. Ella Baker, although a lesser-known hero, was more or less Martin's backbone. James Baldwin, the novelist who spent his lifetime speaking against poverty, racism, and inequality, plagues the United States. Who wouldn’t marvel at the achievements of Muhammad Ali, the greatest heavyweight boxing champion, or the audacity of Jack Johnson, the first heavyweight world champion? When going through turbulent times, you can always run to the ever-impacting poetry of Langston Hughes, Gwendolyn Brooks, Nikki Giovanni, and Paul Lawrence Dunbar.
Even merely reflecting on the anonymous slave who endured to keep the black culture alive is enough to renew one’s strength.
How the Family Reunions Improves self-esteem.
Despite the huge progress recorded in race relations in the US, it is evident that African American youth deal with the highest level of negative social regard compared to other races or ethnic groups. The level of discrimination African Americans face daily is alarming and, in turn, has an impact on-their self-esteem.
However, the average African American family has a unique way of counteracting this discrimination through unique connections and social interaction. Children are schooled on the stereotypical views of the African American culture, ways to cope with discrimination, emphasising interracial inequality, and emphasising self-worth, work ethic, honesty, and other values.
For an African American, a family reunion is another special tradition. It is also one of the most favoured forms of bonding . It offers a fun and relaxed avenue for the older generation to pass down wisdom and cultural knowledge to the younger generation.The connection and love that dwells within the African American Family is a burning flame that can not be extinguished and burns eternally. So no matter how busy you are with life remember to keep putting the family first because history has shown us time and time again, we are truly all we got !
