Amidst the current backlash to promote multiculturalism in academic and corporate institutions, the Modern Elder Academy (MEA) championed a Black Modern Elder Academy (BMEA) Week, this past June 10 – June 15. Now in its second year, BMEA hosted a total of 14 people (plus facilitators) who represented the African diaspora and were awarded scholarships from AGE (Association for Growth and Education/MEA’s affiliated nonprofit) to take part in the week held at the beautiful MEA campus in Baja, Mexico. Participants ventured from different parts of America to share their stories and honor their ancestors during the Juneteenth holiday, the day the slaves were proclaimed free in America.
The Week was unapologetically joyful and transformative, set in a physically lush and emotionally safe environment where participants could explore their triumphs and challenges, connect with their inner spirit and ancestral wisdom, and build a purpose-driven community of Black Modern Elders after midlife.
The First morning at sunrise, Saul, the Mexican shaman, provided contemplative messages, and libation (an African tradition recognizing the contributions of ancestors and a pantheon of others) was poured, setting the tone for the upcoming week. Cohort members wore all white symbolizing purity, spirituality, peace, and new beginnings. As the cohort walked the sandy beach towards the shore of the ocean with ragged wooden sticks in their hands that resembled canes of elderly African wisemen, some found identity with the African water spirit, Yemaya (which means “mother of the fish”), some quietly sang and slowly danced to the tides swaying from side to side; and others froze in the moment in timeless silent self-reflection.
The following days, participants delved into the standard MEA teachings with hints of African lore and luster. There was dancing and singing, sometimes with the organic playing of a tamborine, drum, and rhythmic clapping of hands. Bread making was an over-the-top event flavored with Yoruba ritual and procession. The atmosphere at times was electric and there was a special bonding that took place.
The magic of belonging began to unfold, ancestral connections were enhanced, the feelings of respect and honor were established and wisdom was savored. The culture of African elderhood was restored, bearing witness to the birth of the Takatifu Kijiji (“sacred village” in Swahili) cohort. As stated by Paula McClain, a cohort member, “The BMEA experience far surpassed my imagination and expectation. The MEA model of intimate sharing, bonding, and creating a new community of compadres, now with a common Black Experience was phenomenal!”
By creating BMEA as an affinity group, AGE’s hope is that the experience will “spill over” and eventually increase the number of diverse applicants into the regular MEA workshops.
-Wanda
Wanda K. Whitaker is an author, illustrator, a 4-time participant MEA graduate, and co-facilitator for BMEA and member of the AGE board of directors. Currently, she works as a visionary artist, certified hypnotherapist, spiritual advisor, and internationalist. She is always working on herself to gain more wisdom so that she can be more prepared to serve humanity.