SANKOFA…
THE PAST, WHILE BEHIND US, SHOULD NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. This sentiment is best represented by the image of a Sankofa; an Asante Adinkra symbol of a bird with its head turned backwards addressing the past; and feet facing forward- looking to its future, carrying an egg in its mouth signifying the "gems" of the past as well as the generation to come. The term originates from the Twi Language of Ghana, translating to “Go back and get it … It is not taboo to fetch what is at risk of being left behind”.
The SANKOFA exhibit aims to bring attention to local and national African American history and narratives, which inspires pride and connection to the past while encouraging critical examination of oneself and history to powerfully act, do, and grow. The exhibit was created and built with the following three filters in mind:
Economics - The economy that slaves built for America and the Economy that African Americans built for their communities.
Reflection/Mindfulness - Taking the time and having the space to look and learn from the past and reflect on oneself to grow.
Local/Community – Local (Oregon) narratives and history related to the above to teach and inspire
