Kazi is the Blackest of All: Nkechi Taifa on Black Liberation
In a virtual fireside chat, our Program Manager Latriece Love-Goodlet sat down with Ms. Nkechi Taifa, a revered Black freedom fighter, attorney, jegna, and revolutionary, who shared profound and impactful insights with all who attended. The session, titled "Kazi is the Blackest of All—Black Power, Responsibility, Reparations, and Liberation," centered on the interconnected themes of Black August, reparations, and the ongoing struggle for Black liberation.
Ms. Nkechi emphasized that Black August is not just a month of reflection but a time of radical resistance, dedicated to honoring the sacrifices of Black revolutionaries, political prisoners, and freedom fighters. "Black August is a month dedicated to commemorating and paying homage to Black revolutionaries, incarcerated freedom fighters, and Black resistance, historical as well as contemporary," she stated. This powerful declaration underscores the ongoing importance of recognizing and continuing the struggle for justice, reminding us that the fight for freedom is far from over.
The theme of "Kazi is the Blackest of All" was woven throughout the discussion, emphasizing that work—our collective effort—is central to Black liberation. "Kazi, meaning work, is the essence of our responsibility to each other and our community," Nkechi explained. She emphasized that this work is not just about labor but about the dedication and perseverance required to achieve true freedom and justice.
The conversation on reparations was particularly compelling, as she drew from her 40 plus years in the movement. She highlighted that reparations are about more than just monetary compensation; they are about addressing the multi-faceted harms caused by slavery and systemic racism. "The harms from the enslavement era and beyond were multi-faceted, thus the remedies must be multi-faceted as well," Nkechi explained. She emphasized the importance of self-determination, urging the Black community to define what reparations should look like rather than allowing external forces to dictate the terms. This perspective challenges us to think critically about what true justice and repair would entail.
A particularly resonant moment from the workshop was Ms.Nkechi’s acknowledgment of the wisdom and energy that today’s youth bring to the movement. She shared, "I need to sit at your feet. You have something to teach me." This statement reflects a deep recognition of the intergenerational collaboration essential for progress. As an elder, Ms.Nkechi understands that listening to and learning from younger generations is vital in continuing the fight for justice and equality.
In moving forward, let us embrace the lessons shared by Ms. Nkechi Taifa and continue to work together—across generations—to advance the cause of Black liberation. The work is far from over, but with collective effort, we can create meaningful change, ensuring that the sacrifices of those who came before us were not in vain and that the path toward freedom and justice remains illuminated for future generations.
