BANA (1 to 6 yrs old)

1. “We know that we are Afrikan”

– This is a declaration of self-identity and consciousness rooted in Afrikan heritage. It’s about acknowledging a shared history, culture, and roots in Afrika.

2. “We respect our Ancestors”

– Acknowledging and honouring those who came before is a key aspect of many Afrikan and diasporic cultures. This respect includes understanding the struggles and sacrifices made by ancestors and keeping their legacy alive.

3. “We know our place in the story of our family”

– This emphasises the importance of family lineage and the continuity of tradition. Knowing one’s place in the family lineage fosters a sense of belonging and responsibility within that lineage.

4. “We can say the names of our parents and their parents and their parents before them”

– This is about the oral tradition and the importance of remembering family history, as well as keeping the names and stories of one’s ancestors alive, reflecting the value of intergenerational memory.

5. “We have fun and we are happy as we learn”

– Learning about one’s culture, history, and identity is not meant to be a burden but rather an enjoyable and empowering experience. This implies that cultural education can and should bring joy.

6. “We see all that is around us”

– This could refer to being conscious and aware of one’s environment—social, political, and cultural. It’s about being mindful and observant of the world while maintaining an understanding of one’s identity.

7. “We love ourselves, and we know we are loved by Afrikan people”

– Self-love is emphasised here, but it’s connected to the love and support of the Afrikan community. This communal love reflects the collective values often found in Afrikan-centered ideologies.

8. “We feel our spirit”

– This likely refers to spiritual awareness and connection, perhaps linking to Afrikan spirituality or a sense of inner peace and purpose.

9. “We love Afrika”

– Expressing love for Afrika as the motherland, this reinforces a connection to the continent, its history, cultures, and people.

10. “We love Baba John Henrik Clarke”

– John Henrik Clarke was an influential historian, professor, and advocate for Pan-Afrikanism. Expressing love for him is recognising his contributions to Afrikan history, education, and the empowerment of Black people worldwide.