While working for the Peace Corps, a young African-American woman traveled her usual route from her homestead in Tanzania. She waved as she like she did every day to the women sitting or working outside their homes. But this particular day they called her over and inquired about her family origin, when they finally understood she was from the U.S. they nodded in harmony and responded, “Oh, you are one of the lost ones.” As perceived by this woman … [Read more...]
#UnlockingExcellence
#UnlockingExcellence What happens when a child believes in his or herself and becomes a visionary? Their goals, combined with a positive self-identity, become a compass for their future and a barometer for their expectations in life. A child that is pursuing his or her dream needs a community to pave the way with love, encouragement, support and resources. As Frederick Douglass has told us: “It is easier to build strong children than to … [Read more...]
The Village Method and the Pedagogy of Confidence
As the beginning of the school year is upon us, all across our country K-12 students will be assessed on a myriad of materials both academically and socially. It is common place for teachers to want to know what their students do and don’t know in order to determine what information will need to be brought forward in the school year. Dr. Yvette Johnson has spent her life’s work is on encouraging educators to start teaching from a place of assets … [Read more...]
“It Takes a Village”
"It takes a village to raise a child and a community to keep our parents sane". This is an old and timeless African proverb that still rings true to this very day. But what is also true is that what works for some does not always work for others. When it comes to Black communities, the media bombards the masses with images of African American communities saturated in violence, poverty, and unrest. However, it is quite the contrary. There are … [Read more...]
A Village to Raise a Child… And a Community to Keep Parents Sane
If you're reading this blog and have children, perhaps you've had this epiphany... “My child is brilliant, but not perfect". If you haven't had this revelation, then keep on living. Here is an article titled "African Parenting: A Sane Way to Raise Children" of a mother who recognizes that it takes a village to raise a child... and a community to keep the parents sane. I appreciate the response given with how her childcare provider approaches … [Read more...]
Getting Things Off the Ground
Today was the first step to moving this organization forward. This is the realization of a dream that has been decades in the making. Today is a call to step out and take hold of the future. To not fear the unknown and to meet people where they are. We are here to provide people with opportunities, resources, and restore hope to our communities, families, and children. It takes a Village and we are here…. … [Read more...]
Dr. Jawanza Kunjufu Speaks on Using The Village Method
Here is a timely video full of wisdom on the topic of raising children using The Village Method. Specifically Dr. Kunjufu lays out the order in which raising children used to be done. Dr. Jawanza Kunjufu Video on The Village Method. I encourage you to watch the entire series of videos #1-6. I've included video #2 here: The "method" Dr. Kunjufu describes is outlined in five layers. The Lord The Village Common Sense The Belt (yes... … [Read more...]
