As the world of Black History resources continues to grow (1), we highlight one of the most exciting ranges to come on the scene to date, the Black History Activity Books series.
Founded by graphic designer Andrew Lindo half a decade ago this innovative, high quality, expertly illustrated and engaging series of books featuring an increasing number of heroes and sheroes from our past (e.g. Marcus Garvey, Malcolm X, Nanny, Bob Marley, Harriet Tubman, etc, etc.) are aimed at 6-14-year-olds. (2) Bro. Andrew is unequivocal about the aim of the series:
“The Black History Activity Books have been designed to inspire and educate young people on some of the greatest figures in history. The books use a series of puzzles and activities to stimulate the minds of the reader whilst aiding them to learn in a fun and exciting way… We believe our books can aid young people to accomplish their goals and make the world a better place. Through our books, we can help to empower young people with knowledge and love for self. By opening their minds to the unlimited options they have and giving them alternates to the drug and knife crime culture; which is being promoted so prevalently in our society today.” (3)
Not satisfied with just books, Bro. Andrew has also branched out into clothing, mugs and merchandise. This vision has culminated in the Black History Activity Book Expos, that have become the biggest event of their type in Europe, with the next one scheduled for Saturday 29th October 2022 at NEC Birmingham (https://blackhistoryactivitybooks.com/event/black-history-activity-books-the-trinity-2022/). The stellar line-up on the day includes: Paul Obinna, Leon Marshall, Student Minister Abdul Hakeem, Raspect Fyahbinghi and many more. In may respects the expo is a manifestation of various elements of the Nguzo Saba, created out of Dr Maulana Karenga’s Kawaida, the cultural nationalist theory that underscores the celebration of Kwanzaa. (4) Taken as a whole we see the Umoja (Unity); Kujichagulia (Self-Determination); Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility); Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics); Nia (Purpose); Kuumba (Creativity) and Imani (Faith) in this work. (5)
(1) Afrika Speaks with Alkebu-Lan on Galaxy Radio (17/10/22) How should we teach Black History to our children? Pt 2 https://alkebulan.org/2022/10/17/aswag-403-teach-black-history-2/
(2) Black History Activity Books TV (29/01/19) Mutabaruka doesn’t like my drawings!! Muta Interviews Andrew Lindo live on STEPPIN RAZOR 10/2018. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=krQkhKfzAC4&t=197s.
(3) Black History Activity Books (2022) ABOUT US. https://blackhistoryactivitybooks.com/about/
(4) Maulana Karenga (2002) Kwanzaa: A Celebration of Family, Community and Culture. University of Sankore Press. p. 3
(5) Karenga. p. 34.
So tonight we ask the question:
How should we teach Black History to our children? Pt 3
1) Do you have any of the Black History Activity Books?
2) How can a knowledge of our history help our young people succeed?
3) Is it important to link our history to other aspects of our lives?
4) Is the Nuguza Saba a useful tool for organising our activities?
Bro. Ldr. Mbandaka: Resident guest who is Spiritual Leader of the Alkebu-Lan Revivalist Movement and an Afrikan-Centered Education Consultant. Bro. Ldr is a veteran activist of nearly 40 years standing, a featured columnist in The Whirlwind newspaper and author of Mosiah Daily Affirmations and Education: An African-Centred Approach To Excellence.
Bro. Andrew Lindo: is a graphic designer, illustrator, publisher and founder of Black History Activity Books and the Black History Activity Books Expo, the largest of its kind in Europe. (https://blackhistoryactivitybooks.com/)