July Thoughts and Themes

July is known for “emancipation,” “independence,” or “freedom.” Nations around the world celebrate “emancipation” or “independence” (for example: Canada celebrates on 7/1; the United States of America celebrates on 7/4 (although as an African born in American I would ask you to read or listen to Frederick Douglass’ 4th of July speech to understand the complexity of this USA celebration for many Black folx); Malawi celebrates on 7/6; Sao Tome & Principe celebrates on 7/12; France celebrates Bastille Day on 7/14). 

And while many nations celebrate “freedom” I would be remiss if I did not recognize that present day bondage still occurs in the form of human trafficking that victimizes far too many globally, so consider learning what you can do (see: https://traffickinginstitute.org/ or https://www.iom.int/counter-trafficking or please research for yourself) and/or support those organizing against this present-day horror. 

Similarly we see the “freedom” of our Palestinian brothers and sisters being brutally assaulted right before our eyes, so consider to work of UNRWA or AFSC or Jewish Voice for Peace or learning what you can do &/or supporting BDS or other efforts. 

Finally, many end July celebrating Pan African Women’s Day on 7/31 because our African sisters hold up more than ½ the sky. So, whether you celebrate Emancipation, Independence, Nelson Mandela or Pan-African Women’s Day with grilling, fireworks or community gathering please consider using intergenerational storytelling as a way to enjoy your celebrations. 

Intergenerational storytelling is a great way to pass on our history and culture to the next generation. “Lest we forget,” which is what “usisahau” means, is important because if we do not tell our story then how will our children know of our greatness. 

The Hon. Marcus Garvey once said “a people without knowledge of their past history...is like a tree without roots.” So, it is imperative to tell stories of challenges, struggle and triumph while naming the names of some of our freedom soldiers – such as:

• Frantz Fanon: one of the most influential revolutionary thinkers and organizers of the 20th century and on Sunday, July 20, 2025 it marks the 100 year anniversary of the birth of this Martiniquian revolutionary, physician, psychiatrist, author and emissary.

• Assata Shakur: a freedom soldier, celebrating a birthday on 7/16, who organized with the Black Panther Party and Black Liberation Army who escaped political imprisonment in 1984.

These souls helped to advance the cause of justice for our people – uhuru or freedom is the call (especially as we look forward to the self-determined observances of #BlackAugust!