In modern times when talking about things such as ancestors often it's met with eyebrows raised in distrust or thoughts of mysticism. However, when you talk to people closer to the source you find the explanation is much simpler. They were not some great untouchable deity shrouded in mystery but were men and women just like me and you. Though usually with great foresight and effort, they did things that helped move the community forward. Whether it was ploughing fields so families could grow seeds and eat homegrown food for generations, or whether through disciplined practice creating music that when played brought the same feelings to the ears like the softness of a bed after a hard day, comforting millions.
Kimbwandènde Kia Bunseki Fu-Kiau in his book African Cosmology derived from the teachings of the Congo Bantus said that man is like the sun rising and setting around the earth and that it's man's job while here on earth to do things that help push forward his community. You can only imagine how many before us done their part in pushing forward the community with great ambitions and beliefs. Many now probably as relics, forgotten kings and queens.
I was talking to my friend William recently, we've known each other for over 20 years. I can honestly say he's seen the best and worst of me, my times spent galavanting 😁 and my times stood tall in purpose. Though even after all of this time we are still able to learn from each other. A few weeks back we were having a discussion about African culture. I brought up something I really appreciate since learning about the Somali culture is the importance they place on their lineage, as it means that even in this modern era many Somalis can trace back their family lineage for generations, some reaching back 10 generations or 500 years. Ultimately, it gives them access to a rich family history.
William whose background is Ghanaian told me this is something too his family practice though he took it a step further getting real spiritual and religious with it as he told me the reason for its importance. He said to me while I drove under a bridge traversing a bend of the A12. "When you read the bible what's one of the first things it starts with..." 'And unto Enoch was born Irad: and Irad begat Mehujael: and Mehujael begat Methusael...' I came out of the tunnel of the A12 enlightened both visually and religiously 😁.
History is important as it connects you with your great forgotten past...
As I reflect on the importance of history this Black History Month, I invite you to revisit our Dem Live A Foreign exhibition. This exhibition was a deep cultural dive into the contributions of London’s Caribbean and Somali communities—showcasing their resilience, heritage, and ongoing impact on British culture through music, food, and community. Please click here
Lastly, I would like to say a thank you to Veronique for reminding me of the importance of writing down my thoughts, as knowledge isn't always common...
Finally, as we look ahead, we’ve been working tirelessly on our next exhibition. We believe it will be truly groundbreaking, but we need your help to make it a reality. We're asking for a donation of just £1 to help us bring this vision to life. Your support, however small, will go a long way in helping us continue to celebrate and honour our shared history. Please click here to donate.
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