Isésé and the connection between Sankofa ideology
18 May, Isésé and the connection between Sankofa ideology. Connection between land and spirituality (Orisha Oko), L. Simpson ET AL. PERFORMATIVE GATHERING @ Dar Bellarj Foundation, 7:30 – 9 pm*** NB: this session is open to anyone to attend.
Session 5.6. Isésé and the connection between Sankofa ideology. Connection between land and spirituality (Orisha Oko)
Convened by L. Simpson (Ihen N’ Uri Temple, USA) & N. Brown-Almaweri (Bioneers, USA)
In the aftermath of the transatlantic slave trade, African Americans living in the Americas are constantly fighting to reclaim the heritage, culture, religions, customs and practices stripped from them over generations. Today, it is imperative that we seek to return to what was lost and reclaim our identity and ancestral practices. The Akan proverb affirms “Se wo were fi na wosankofa a yenkyi” (translated from the Akan meaning “it is not taboo to go back and fetch what you forgot”). We must remember the past to make progress in the future.
In my practice, reclaiming my ancestral roots and connections to the African diaspora is the practice of Isésé. This tradition is preserved through the Odu Ifa Literary Corpus. An oral tradition based on stories, teaching, proverbs, and songs that has been passed down from generations. The cultural significance and diversity of religious beliefs whether Yoruba, Islam or Christianity contain similarities of maintaining their traditions. Using a circular shared discussion, where people can share their own spiritual beliefs if comfortable, we will highlight the intersections, contributions, and potential solidarity we can have as a spiritual community across the diaspora.
Throughout the session, we will discuss ways and practices that connect spirituality to land-based indigenous knowledge. This will include pouring libations in ceremony, sharing ancestral connections, altar building, and working with Yoruba-based rituals on the land. While sharing the experience of Yoruba priestesses to show the connection of Agroecology, art, and spirituality.