Author: lakischasmith

In the rich mosaic of family life, creating traditions is akin to weaving threads that connect our heritage, current experiences, and future aspirations into a vibrant tapestry of collective identity and sense of belonging. For African American families, establishing our unique traditions is crucial. Often, the broader culture nudges us towards European-centric holidays that, while widely recognized, may not fully embrace our rich cultural legacy or acknowledge the significant contributions of Africans and African Americans throughout history.

These widely marketed holidays often prioritize consumerism over authentic cultural expression and reflection on our distinct historical narratives. While these celebrations can bring people together, it’s vital for African American families to also cultivate traditions that authentically represent our heritage—ones that honor our culture, history, and societal contributions, which are significant and merit recognition throughout the year, not solely during Black History Month.

Forming family traditions rooted in African and African American heritage is a profound way to honor our ancestors’ legacies. This could involve storytelling evenings, where tales of bravery, perseverance, and success are shared across generations, or celebrating significant dates like Juneteenth and Kwanzaa, or even creating new customs that echo our communal aspirations. These activities reinforce family ties and instill a deep sense of pride and self-esteem in younger family members, encouraging them to appreciate their heritage and the collective strength of their community.

Moreover, embracing our traditions serves as a strong rebuttal to the marginalization of African American histories and achievements. It asserts the importance of our stories, not only during a specific month but in the everyday fabric of our lives. These traditions offer a means to educate, uplift, and inspire, ensuring the vibrancy of African and African American cultures continues to enrich and shape society.

Addressing and amending the disproportion in the holidays and traditions we acknowledge is also essential. This requires a critical evaluation of societal norms that favor certain narratives over others and a deliberate action to weave our cultural legacy into our celebrations. By doing so, we pay homage to our forebears, enrich our present, and lay the foundation for a future where African American youths recognize the full scope of their ancestors’ contributions to the world.

Ultimately, forging family traditions grounded in African and African American cultures is more than mere celebration; it’s an act of persistence, enlightenment, and empowerment. It ensures our stories are perpetuated, respected, and celebrated, offering a sense of community and identity far beyond what commercial holidays can provide. As we progress, let’s embrace and maintain these traditions, integrating them into our family lives as seamlessly as the love that unites us.

With Love, Lakischa Smith

Meet Lakischa Smith, a proud mother and a dedicated public health advocate. With a Bachelor’s from Dillard University and a Master’s in Public Health from Florida International University, she’s committed to sharing honest narratives about black motherhood. Lakischa believes in fostering sisterhood to combat the pervasive forces of white supremacy, and empowering African American women to be agents of change for future generations. She asserts that recognizing and addressing our community’s struggles is crucial, for healing is the key to moving forward. Armed with the power of education and a deep belief in collective action, Lakischa is determined to ensure that the issues impacting African American parenthood aren’t just seen—they’re addressed and resolved.

In the tapestry of motherhood, woven with the threads of love, sacrifice, and endless worry, there’s an element that’s becoming increasingly rare yet is profoundly needed—unity. The journey of raising children, filled with its unparalleled joys and daunting challenges, is not one meant to be embarked upon in solitude. Yet, in today’s fast-paced, individual-centric society, many mothers find themselves isolated, craving the support and understanding that only a community of fellow mothers can provide. This lack of sisterhood, particularly pronounced in African American communities, marks a significant departure from the historical roots of communal caregiving and support that have sustained generations.

Historically, African American women have been pillars of strength, resilience, and unwavering support for one another. In times of adversity, whether during the era of segregation or the civil rights movement, the concept of “other mothering” and community support systems were not just cultural practices but essential strategies for survival. These traditions saw women in the community collectively caring for, disciplining, and nurturing all children as their own. This network of shared responsibility and mutual support was a cornerstone in overcoming the systemic challenges faced by African American families, fostering a sense of belonging and collective resilience that empowered communities to thrive against the odds.

However, as we navigate the complexities of the 21st century, the spirit of unity in motherhood seems to be waning. Several factors contribute to this decline. Modern societal pressures demand that mothers juggle careers, parenting, and personal development, often glorifying the notion of “doing it all” without external assistance. The erosion of communal living and the rise of nuclear families exacerbate this isolation, making the once ubiquitous support networks harder to come by. Furthermore, the digital age, while offering unprecedented opportunities for connection, often breeds comparison and competition among mothers, undermining the foundations of genuine support and camaraderie.

This disconnection from our communal roots not only deprives mothers of the emotional and logistical support they desperately need but also robs children of experiencing the enriched, multifaceted upbringing that a community of caregivers can provide. The question then arises: how can we bridge this gap and revive the lost art of unity in motherhood?

The answer lies in looking back to move forward. By revisiting the principles of “other mothering” and leveraging the lessons of our ancestors, we can find pathways to reintegrate these practices into our modern lives. It begins with extending a hand—forming networks, initiating conversations, and creating inclusive spaces where mothers feel seen, heard, and valued. Emphasizing the importance of vulnerability, mutual respect, and shared experiences can foster environments where mothers are empowered to seek and offer help freely, without fear of judgment or reprisal.

Moreover, leveraging technology and social media as tools for connection rather than division can play a pivotal role in rekindling the sense of community. Virtual support groups, forums, and social networks can serve as platforms for sharing knowledge, resources, and encouragement, mirroring the communal support systems of the past in the digital age.

To truly revive the sisterhood in motherhood, we must also challenge the societal norms that glorify individual achievement over collective well-being. Celebrating acts of “other mothering,” whether it’s sharing the load of childcare, providing emotional support, or imparting wisdom and advice, reinforces the value of community and the integral role it plays in nurturing well-adjusted, resilient children.

In essence, the journey back to unity in motherhood is not a solitary endeavor but a collective movement towards reclaiming the interconnectedness that has historically defined the African American experience. By drawing on the strength, wisdom, and spirit of our foremothers, we can rebuild the village it takes to raise a child. This renewed commitment to sisterhood, support, and shared growth holds the promise of not only enriching the lives of individual mothers and their children but also of strengthening the very fabric of our communities for generations to come.

Lakischa Smith