Because of Them; We Are

The transatlantic slave trade brought millions of our African ancestors to the Americas, where they were subjected to unimaginable suffering and exploitation. While much attention has been given to the experiences of enslaved Africans in North and South America, it is crucial to acknowledge the significant presence and enduring legacy of enslaved Africans in Central America and the Caribbean islands.

During the era of European colonization, the Spanish, and English Empires established a vast network of colonies throughout the Caribbean and Central America. As part of their imperial expansion, enslaved Africans were forcibly transported to these regions to work on plantations and in mines. The exact numbers of Ancestors brought to these areas remain unclear, but their presence was substantial and left an indelible mark on the cultural fabric of the region.

Our enslaved Ancestors in Honduras, Belize, and the Caribbean Islands endured arduous conditions characterized by backbreaking labor, physical abuse, and dehumanization. They were subjected to the harsh realities of plantation life, and forced to cultivate crops such as sugarcane, tobacco, coffee, and indigo. The toll of slavery on physical and mental well-being was immense, as slaves were often overworked, malnourished, and lived in squalid conditions.

Despite the overwhelming oppression, our enslaved Ancestors displayed remarkable resilience and resistance. They actively resisted their captivity through forms of rebellion, including acts of sabotage, escape, and armed uprisings. Notable revolts such as the Haitian Revolution (1791-1804) and the Jamaican Maroon Wars (c. 1655-1739) stand as powerful examples of collective resistance against the institution of slavery.

Contrary to what we've been indoctrinated to know about our Ancestors, our people were not mere victims; the rebellions and uprisings were instrumental in challenging the institution of slavery and advancing the cause of freedom. Our Ancestors showcased determination, courage, and resilience in their fight against oppression. The legacies of these revolts continue to be remembered and celebrated as important milestones in the struggle for racial equality and human rights in the region today.

When our Ancestors were not rebelling, they escaped and began 'Maroon' communities that were formed by groups of escaped slaves or fugitive slaves who established their own settlements and societies independent of colonial authority. They exerted their agency and infused their cultural practices into the societies that emerged from being enslaved.

Our ancestors in Belize and Roatan exhibited remarkable resilience and employed various strategies of resistance and survival in the face of oppressive conditions. The resistance and survival strategies demonstrate their agency, determination, and indomitable SPIRIT to resist dehumanization and maintain a cultural heritage. These strategies played a crucial role in fostering a sense of community, preserving cultural traditions, and contributing to the resilience and collective memory of their descendants, thus us.

After emancipation, many freed Ancestors remained in the area, they had already established Maroon communities, so they continued to develop, and implement their cultural practices and traditions. The retention of African languages, music, dance, religious beliefs, and culinary traditions profoundly influenced the cultural landscapes of Honduras, Belize, and the Caribbean Islands. Today, vibrant expressions such as Afro-Caribbean music genres like punta, reggae, calypso, and salsa, as well as spiritual practices like Vodou, Obeah, and Santeria, serve as testaments to the enduring legacy of African cultural contributions.

Our Ancestors also brought knowledge of rice cultivation and cooking techniques. Ingredients like chili peppers, garlic, onions, and various herbs and spices were incorporated into traditional dishes, creating a unique blend of flavors. For example, dishes like chimole, a savory soup made with spices, tomatoes, and chicken, showcase African culinary influences.

Furthermore, the concept of "one-pot" meals, where various ingredients are cooked together, can be attributed to West African cooking traditions. Dishes like tapado, or conch soup in Honduras, a seafood stew made with coconut milk and various vegetables, reflect this culinary approach. The cooking techniques and flavors of our ancestors' influence, spices, and seasoning in Honduran and Belizean cuisine are very prominent today.

Despite the denial of formal education, our Ancestors in Belize and Roatan preserved their history and knowledge through oral tradition. They passed down stories, folktales, songs, and oral histories from generation to generation, ensuring the transmission of cultural knowledge and resistance narratives. The preservation of this knowledge allowed our people to maintain a sense of identity, resist erasure, and inspire future generations in the pursuit of freedom and equality.

The legacy of our Ancestors in Honduras, Belize, and the Caribbean Islands is deeply embedded in the social, cultural, and political tapestry of these regions. The fight against racial inequality and the quest for social justice continues to be informed by the historical struggles and resilience of African descendants. Moreover, the recognition and celebration of African heritage contribute to the promotion of cultural diversity and inclusivity in today's societies. Though we may travel away from our most recent identity, it's not far away, it's within you, and it's part of who you are.