Today we honor Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics).
The principle that reminds us that our economic power grows strongest when it is shared, circulated, and intentionally invested within our communities.
Ujamaa teaches us that money is not just currency; it is a tool. A tool for building stability, sustaining culture, and creating opportunity. When we support Black-owned businesses, community organizations, artists, educators, and entrepreneurs, we are doing more than making purchases: we are making statements about what we value.
Cooperative economics is about collective advancement. It is about understanding that when one of us thrives, it creates pathways for others to do the same. It challenges the idea that success must be solitary and instead invites us into models of mutual support, collaboration, and shared growth.
Ujamaa asks us to reflect:
- Where do we invest our resources: time, money, energy, and attention?
- How do our economic choices impact our neighbors and future generations?
- How can we build systems that allow our communities not just to survive, but to flourish?
Practicing Ujamaa can look like shopping local, pooling resources, mentoring emerging entrepreneurs, supporting community initiatives, and advocating for economic equity. It is both a mindset and a movement, one that prioritizes sustainability over exploitation and cooperation over competition.
As we light the fourth candle, may we commit to building economic strength together.
May we circulate support with intention.
May we honor the labor, creativity, and brilliance within our communities.
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Happy Ujamaa.
🖤❤️💚