Friday, October 13, 2006

The Sankofa Bird

A West African Symbol
The Sankofa bird is flying forward while looking backward with an egg in its mouth. The egg symbolizes the future. "We must go back and reclaim our past so we can move forward; so we understand why and how we came to be who we are today." "We should reach back and gather the best of what our past has to teach us, so that we can achieve our full potential as we move forward. Whatever we have lost, forgotten, forgone or been stripped of, can be reclaimed, revived, preserved and perpetuated."

6 comments:

Anonymous said...

At 63-years-old, I was first introduced to the word "Sankofa" with an understanding of the Sankofa bird. What a beautiful image. I am proudly African American and I challenge each of us, whether African American heritage or not to revive the rich legacy of history of African Americans. For those who are of African American heritage, I challenge you to reclaim your heritage. Whether it's a history we don't remember or have forgotten, or a history that we never knew — it doesn't matter. Knowledge is what matters and knowledge is what will move us forward.

Anonymous said...

I agree with you 100%! Im only 18 years old and half black and colombian and even though I have never known my african american family or gotten any information on my ancestors I know they are apart of me and my life. I feel like it is my duty to get to know them. I love this sankofa bird and im actually thinking about making it my first tattoo..

OneMeOneUs said...

Thank you for your discussions. They are very insightful.

One great thing about the Sankofa concept is that it has no racial, ethnic or cultural boundaries.

Regardless of your background, it is important to look into your own personal life and view it as a way of learning from mistakes and blessings. And applying what was learned into creating a better future for you and others.

Thoughts said...

As a Social Justice activist I am learning that you cannot offer healing from a broken vessel, the theory of Sankofa is one of healing,come to terms with your past celebrate the victories, acknowledge the defeats and press forward.

Anonymous said...

Dr. Phillip Valentine can help you reclaim your history.

Unknown said...

Yes, I wholeheartedly agree with you. This a tools of hope if we embrace them. Blessings to all.