February 13th is recognized as Black Love Day (BLD) in America. Founded in 1993, Black Love Day is the 3rd nationally, commemorated African-American “wholyday.”
It is an observance of atonement, reconciliation, celebration and 24-hour demonstration of Black love, illustrated through 5 Tenets (or specific acts). They are as follows: love towards the Creator, for Self, for the Family, within the Black Community, and for the Black Race.
Founded in 1993 by Ayo Handy Kendi, founder/director of the African American Holiday Association. Black Love Day is an African-centered, alternative to the commercial Valentine’s Day with the spiritual goals of encouraging: 1) black self-love instead of self-hatred, 2) increased peace to stop violence, and 3) racial healing!
WHAT TO DO:
- Every Feb. 13th, People of African Descent show love for 24 hours.
- Demonstrate the 5 Tenets of Black Love and recommit to the Nguzo Saba, principles of love and unity for the Black Diaspora.
- Display the “Akoma,” an Adinkra symbol of love, patience, goodwill, faithfulness & endurance.
- Give the greeting, “Nya Akoma” (N-yah Ah-Coma) which means “get a heart, be patient!”
- Celebrate with personal love rituals, couple love-ins or community relationship ceremonies.
- Buy conscious love gifts from Black merchants to recycle Black dollars to love our communities.
- Read to learn, grow, and sustain love’s healing power.
- Beyond Feb. 13th, practice the principles of Black Love, returning to love every day to heal ALL our relationships and better the planet!
Suggested Reading:
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| THE CONVERSATION | WHERE DID OUR LOVE GO |
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