What can I say about Kujichagulia?

We often see one another and say, “I see you.”

However, today, as we strive for a Pan-African version of self-actualization, we attempt to “see us” in our pursuit of self-determination.

It’s an attempt to take away stigma, racism, hatred, and all throughout the year, what we have internalized.

Self-determination is to set our own rules, define ourselves as the Afro Kings, Queens, Princes, and Princesses; that we are.

This movement is not about “I” but “We” to create our own community, define our own self-interest, create for ourselves, speak for ourselves, and make decisions that benefit not only us individually but us collectively.

If you only see me, you don’t see my people.

Our people with curly kinky hair

Our people who have been kissed intimately by the sun itself

Our people who are killed daily

Our native land, which we long for in actuality.

Self-determination is moving our people up and out and preserving the Afrocentricism that we hold in our DNA.

Happy Kwanzaa

-Xih-Z Zih