A fundamental psychological human need is for safety and belonging - deep connection, acceptance and support. This need is undoubtedly more urgent and necessary for Black Muslims who are under constant threat of white supremacy, violence and systemic discrimination. Yet, history reminds us that we have sought and created deep wells of belonging and freedom - from the resistance of maroonage and efforts towards establishing autonomy and self-determination. Black Muslims cultivate “places where our souls can rest” and this cultivation leads to collective well-being and fortification. This year, our discussions invite a deep and soulful exploration of HOME & HIJRA, and of LONGING.

• Longing for Home delves into the concept of home as a physical space, a cultural anchor, and an emotional sanctuary. 

• Longing for Home invites critical examination and appreciation of intentional African American communities in the US and West Africa (for example Medina Baye in Senegal) to migration of African descended people to Europe and North America (countries of former colonizers).

• Longing for Home acknowledges feelings of grief and nostalgia associated with the dispossession of Black/African people due to climate crises, gentrification, political instability.

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At BMPC2024, we will explore these questions:

• In our pursuit of knowledge of the past - how do we gather, preserve and embrace our personal and collective stories of migration, identity, belonging, and rootedness?

• How do we challenge ourselves to think deeply about who we are, who we are becoming, the wounds we are carrying, the spiritual fortitude we possess, and the values we are striving towards to imagine and cultivate a healthy future?

• Sankofa comes from the Akan/West African proverb: Se wo were fi na wosan kofa a yenkyiri - It is not wrong to go back for what you have forgotten (or left behind). As we look forward towards an uncertain, yet potentially abundant future - what must remember and bring with us in order to thrive?

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