By Aswad Walker
A certain U.S. government official who is notoriously incurious (closed to learning; unwilling to study, read or research; and thinks his opinions are more important than facts) wants to profane, defile, sully and debase the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
How, you ask?
By walking those hallowed halls filled with exhibits and artifacts researched by some of the most brilliant scholars on planet earth, and designating which exhibits do and which don’t meet his standards of an accurate portrayal of U.S. history.
A person who seriously suggested that people drink Clorox bleach to kill COVID is neither worthy nor deserving of the privilege of setting foot into that edifice. Yet, he will, and we can predict the outcome. A white-washing of our story, “bigly.”
All the more reason for us to gather critical pieces of Black History—African proverbs—that have provided impactful wisdom sayings for our people for eons. The goal here is to reflect on these words and extract their meaning in relation to how we must move in this present moment.
“Until the lion tells his side of the story, the tale of the hunt will always glorify the hunter.” — Zimbabwe
Synopsis: In 2025, with historical erasure and misinformation rampant, Black communities must control their narratives in media, education and politics to protect truth and dignity.
“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” — Ethiopia
Synopsis: Collective action remains vital in 2025, when systemic challenges demand unified organizing, mutual aid and coalition building rather than isolated individual wins.
“When there is no enemy within, the enemies outside cannot hurt you.” — Kenya
Synopsis: In a time of mental health crises and internalized oppression, Black people’s self-love, cultural pride and emotional healing are essential for resisting outside harm.
“Rain does not fall on one roof alone.” — Cameroon
Synopsis: In 2025, social, economic, and environmental crises—like climate change, policing, or gentrification—impact the whole community, making shared problem-solving a survival strategy.
“Wisdom is like a baobab tree; no one individual can embrace it.” — Ghana
Synopsis: With rapidly shifting technologies, laws and social norms, intergenerational and cross-community knowledge sharing is critical for Black people to navigate 2025’s complex realities.
