“The African slave who sailed to the New World did not sail alone. People brought their culture, no matter how adverse the circumstances. And therefore part of America is African.” Henry Louis Gates Jr.
When I started on the quest to select curriculum for my two homeschoolers, I especially wanted to find a History curriculum that would provide a much broader view of the people of African descent and their experiences in America. I guess you could say that I was very naive in believing a non-minority owned textbook company would have what I wanted. For a brief second, I honestly believed that the material available to homeschoolers would be more inclusive than what is used in public schools. After searching and searching, I came to the realization that I would have to build my own curriculum.
The Henry Louis Gates quote pretty much sums-up why I decided to start our history lessons on the continent of Africa. I have it never doubted or denied my African-ness. In fact, I became more aware of it when I moved to Atlanta 10 years ago. Almost everywhere I went, African (born) people would stop and ask: “Sister, are you from Nigeria?” I’d smile and answer, “No, I’m from Indiana.” After being asked that for the 20th time, I started asking people why they asked me that question and I paid more attention to the features of those Nigerians who thought I was a countryman. And I kept looking at them and studying their faces. Then I’d look in the mirror and study mine. Time and time again. Then I finally ‘saw’ what they ‘saw’ and I was both speechless and excited. I can’t really explain how the excitement felt, but if you’ve ever been in a college-level history or anthropology class when all of your White classmates are talking about their heritage and the numbers of relatives who came from Ireland, Poland, Germany, etc., and all you can say is ‘Somewhere in Africa’ then you know what I mean. It’s about being able to say “I Belong” to this continent/country/people/culture. When you don’t know, that is a sad feeling; at least it was for me.
So we actually started our Journey Along The Coast of Western Africa lesson last week by watching the Globe Trekker DVD on Western Africa (Pilot Productions). Even though I intended for the girls to only watch the segment on Senegal and and Sierra Leone, they ended up watching another one. I guess that’s proof that kids will explore when given the opportunity! I’ve included a download link for what we plan to cover, how, and with what resources. This is a general start and I am sure I will make changes as we go. Hope someone finds it useful!
Along The Western Coast of Africa Lesson Guide & Resource List (FREE)
{ 5 comments… read them below or add one }
I’m a white mama and our heritage is pretty muddled. I gotta say, if I were of a different race, culture or heritage, I would completely and totally emphasize that in my schooling and in our lives. It’s so important. It’s important for everyone, really, regardless of color or heritage. But I think it’s especially crucial to give your own kids the sense of belonging like you mentioned. Good for you!
Wow..thank you! Honestly, I believe we are all muddled, we just don’t know to what degree. That’s kind of why I decided to do it this way, so at least we have a starting point. When I am able, I will do the DNA testing on both sides so that my kids will actually know the origins of their ancestors.
Thank you for taking the time to read and respond. Both are very much appreciated!
Monise
You have no idea how much this post gave me the chills! I LOVE it!!! I’m using a packaged curriculum for my 2nd grader, and we’ll only be doing Bible History this year, but before the ’13-’14 year starts with American History, I want to go African (probably during the summer). I’d love to hear more about what you’re doing with your girls!
I am so glad to hear that! I always hope that something I put on here is of some use to someone. LOL
Thanks for taking the time to read and respond!
Monise
Thanks for sharing! I think you are doing a great job!
Here in The Bahamas, we really don’t have the same dilemma as we have our own history books documenting our journey from Africa.
I’ll look through them and see if there’s anything that may be helpful to you. Just let me know.