FROM THE BLAK WE ROSE
What is the BlakRose?
The BlakRose symbolizes remembrance for those of the past who made it possible for us, in the present, to have a better future. In other words the purpose of the BlakRose is to bring awareness to the great pioneers of African history and their contributions to the fore front by presenting them to the world."A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots" (Marcus Mosiah Garvey)
Why is this necessary?
We believe it is necessary for such a symbol to exist in this day and time because in today’s society it seems as if the accomplishments of Africa and her children have been pushed into the shadows of the European/Western world achievements leaving Africa to be portrayed in a negative light. In doing so the African woman and mans ability to identify with greatness has been hindered. "Whoever controls the images, controls your self-esteem, self respect and self development.Whoever controls the history, controls the vision" (Dr. Leonard Jeffries)
How does that effect anyone?
The effects are major yet subtle meaning after having seen this negative imagery of our homeland, culture and people for so many years stories and pictures of brutality, savagery, starvation and homelessness; we began to build up such distaste for Africa, whether it was towards the language, looks, culture or names of African people so much so that we no longer wanted to be associated with anything remotely African. This hate for the African continent eventually transformed into hate for self because “you cannot hate the roots of a tree without hating the tree itself” (Malcolm X.) Meaning we cannot have a negative view, dislike or hate towards our origin without having it for ourselves. "If a picture paints a thousand words, We have a whole library's worth of self hate books" BlakRose
What is the proof of this
The BlakRose symbolizes remembrance for those of the past who made it possible for us, in the present, to have a better future. In other words the purpose of the BlakRose is to bring awareness to the great pioneers of African history and their contributions to the fore front by presenting them to the world."A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots" (Marcus Mosiah Garvey)
Why is this necessary?
We believe it is necessary for such a symbol to exist in this day and time because in today’s society it seems as if the accomplishments of Africa and her children have been pushed into the shadows of the European/Western world achievements leaving Africa to be portrayed in a negative light. In doing so the African woman and mans ability to identify with greatness has been hindered. "Whoever controls the images, controls your self-esteem, self respect and self development.Whoever controls the history, controls the vision" (Dr. Leonard Jeffries)
How does that effect anyone?
The effects are major yet subtle meaning after having seen this negative imagery of our homeland, culture and people for so many years stories and pictures of brutality, savagery, starvation and homelessness; we began to build up such distaste for Africa, whether it was towards the language, looks, culture or names of African people so much so that we no longer wanted to be associated with anything remotely African. This hate for the African continent eventually transformed into hate for self because “you cannot hate the roots of a tree without hating the tree itself” (Malcolm X.) Meaning we cannot have a negative view, dislike or hate towards our origin without having it for ourselves. "If a picture paints a thousand words, We have a whole library's worth of self hate books" BlakRose
What is the proof of this
As you can see for yourself, self hate has been ingrained into the minds of African children. As stated in this video, a similar test was done in the 1950's and from then to now the test results remain the same!!!
Why is Blak without a 'C'?
The reason behind Blak being spelt this way is due to the negative connotations associated with the word 'Black' in the dictionary. Here are some of them:
So the word has been spelt without a 'C' in order to create my own definition which is: Blak; A mental attitude that reflects Beauty, Strength, Intellect and Wisdom. It is also an acronym for someone who is Beyond.Lies.Applying.Knowledge (B.L.A.K)...Blak is the new black
The reason behind Blak being spelt this way is due to the negative connotations associated with the word 'Black' in the dictionary. Here are some of them:
- Indicative of condemnation <Got a black mark for being late>
- Thoroughly sinister or evil <a black deed>
- Connected with or invoking the supernatural especially the devil
- Very sad, gloomy, or calamitous <Black despair>
So the word has been spelt without a 'C' in order to create my own definition which is: Blak; A mental attitude that reflects Beauty, Strength, Intellect and Wisdom. It is also an acronym for someone who is Beyond.Lies.Applying.Knowledge (B.L.A.K)...Blak is the new black
How will the BlakRose help to change this inferiority complex?
Throughout my journey I have come to a realization "That the best way to hate your Enemy, Oppressor or Foe is to Love yourself" BlakRose.
So BlakRose will help to change this inferiority complex that exists amongst us by Promoting a positive self image to counteract the negative connotations affixed to people of African descent. Once we begin to see ourselves in a positive light and love self (meaning all aspects of self- Origin, Culture, Language, Colour, Mind, Spirit and Soul) we can begin to love others.
"Water your life with reality and only the truth will blossom" (Malachi Z York)
The BlakRose
Wearing a BlakRose is making a declaration that you remember, respect and give gratitude to the contribution and accomplishments of Africa and her children
