Nia – More Than A Pretty Name

Few people are aware of the rich heritage that lies within our DNA. Most people are not aware of the number system originating in Africa. They are not aware of the tremendous contributions to today’s civilization that was made by Africans and shared with the world. They are not aware that some of the world’s first Universities had their homes in Africa. In Egypt, Temples had the statement “Man Know Thyself” at the entrances. It is for this reason that the principle of Nia is important.

In the Nguzo Saba, Nia means Purpose: To make our collective vocation the building and developing of our community in order to restore our people to their traditional greatness. When an individual or group is not aware of what it’s contributions have been, how do we expect the children born of that group to continue it’s legacy of success? Knowledge of success helps breed continued success. We must create media that tells the story of our successes to inspire our youth to be better people. The more we teach our youth, our families and the world about what we have done, the easier it will be to remove the stigma of racism from the world community.

But the concept of Nia does not stop there. We must LIVE what we teach and speak about. Traditional Greatness is not just a “Looking at the Past” concept.  It is a living and breathing present day and future concept. We must be about the business of creating strong communities that have the purpose of uplifting our story. By doing this, we ensure success of our community, our families and our nation. It is in the best interest of the world that we take back our rightful place in history.

First, we need to know what that place is…