World cultures

Acknowledging our ancestor's different journeys. Respecting our different cultures.

Emancipation Day: A global celebration of freedom and equality

Emancipation Day commemorates the abolition of slavery and the liberation of enslaved people. While the specific date varies by country, the sentiment remains universal: a day to celebrate freedom, …

Rasta forerunners – Early Jamaican preachers

The making of the Rastafari movement can be seen in two parts: restoring the dignity of black people that slavery and colonisation had stripped from them and setting them on a spiritual path that was …

History of Notting Hill Carnival

What is Notting Hill Carnival? Notting Hill Carnival is a 3-day annual event that takes place on the streets of Notting Hill during late August bank holiday weekend. It’s a huge tourist …

May Day: Unveiling the Ancient Origins of a joyful spring celebration

May Day, a vibrant and lively holiday celebrated on 1 May, has deep-rooted origins in ancient pagan traditions. This joyous occasion marks the arrival of spring and embraces the flourishing growth and …

The Cultural Divide: Understanding the distinct differences between Black British and African Americans

‍Black British and African Americans may share a common ancestry, but their cultural experiences and perspectives are shaped by different historical, social, and political factors. …

Jab Jab: The celebration of freedom and resilience in Grenada

‍Grenada, known as the “Spice Isle” of the Caribbean, boasts a vibrant cultural tapestry that captivates both locals and visitors alike. Among the numerous cultural celebrations, the Jab …

Moko Jumbies: The enigmatic stilt walkers of the Caribbean

In the culturally rich Caribbean islands, people often see fascinating dancers on stilts at carnivals and festivals. These extraordinary figures, called Moko Jumbi or Mocko Jumbie, are captivating …

The vibrant tradition of Junkanoo: A celebration of culture and resistance

‍Junkanoo, a lively festival celebrated in the Caribbean, is a vibrant display of music, dance, and costumes. It has a rich history dating back to the era of slavery and has deep cultural significance …

Ackee and Saltfish – a match made in taste bud heaven

Ackee and Saltfish is the National Dish of Jamaica, but neither ingredient is of Jamaican origin. Ackee Ackee is derived from the original name Ankye, which comes from the Twi language of Ghana. …

What does Easter mean to you?

For most children, Easter is a time when they get to eat a lot of chocolate without being told off. For some adults, it’s a nice long weekend away from work. As a Jamaican, my family have long …

Kwanzaa – an alternative to Christmas

Kwanzaa begins on 26 December and lasts for seven days. It is a celebration of community, family and culture, established to help African Americans reconnect with their African roots and …

The role of the Arab slave trade in the spread of Islam

The Arab slave trade, spanning from the 7th century well into the 20th century, had profound impacts on the regions it touched, including significant cultural and religious influences. This analysis …

General

Categories