Reclaiming Our Ancestral Power and Spiritual Roots

As we approach Indigenous People’s Day, it’s important to reflect not only on the indigenous people of the Americas but also on how this day resonates with Black women on a spiritual journey. The shared history of African and Indigenous peoples is one of deep connection to the earth, reverence for ancestors, and a spirituality that transcends colonial religious norms. For many of us in the Melanated Goddess Circle, reclaiming our ancestral power and tapping into our divine feminine energy involves looking back at these indigenous traditions and acknowledging the wisdom that flows from them.

What is Indigenous People’s Day?

Indigenous People’s Day is a celebration of the original inhabitants of the Americas, a day to honor their rich cultures, histories, and contributions. It stands as a counter-narrative to Columbus Day, which traditionally glorifies colonization. This day encourages us to reflect on the resilience and strength of Indigenous communities who have fought to preserve their spiritual and cultural practices in the face of erasure.

The Intersection of African and Indigenous Spirituality

Many of us have heard stories passed down through generations about the sacred connection our ancestors had to the earth, the moon, and the stars. Indigenous cultures, much like African-rooted spiritual systems, understood the importance of harmony with nature, the honoring of ancestors, and the power of community.

For Black women, there is often a forgotten or obscured intersection between African and Indigenous spirituality. Many of our ancestors were Indigenous to the lands we now call home. Others had to blend their African spiritual traditions with those of Indigenous communities as a means of survival and resistance. These connections have created rich, spiritual lineages that, unfortunately, have been largely demonized by colonial systems.

But now, more than ever, Black women are awakening to the power that lies within these ancestral practices. We are reclaiming our right to honor the spirits of the land and our ancestors without shame or fear. We are rediscovering the spiritual practices that have been passed down through bloodlines, whether they are African-rooted, Indigenous to the Americas, or a combination of both.

Decolonizing Spirituality and Reclaiming Our Power

Both Indigenous and African peoples have experienced a history of colonization that sought to sever our connection to the divine and replace it with structures that did not honor our unique spiritual identities. For Black women who have experienced church hurt or feel spiritually disconnected, Indigenous People’s Day offers a powerful reminder: we have the right to reclaim our spiritual practices, decolonize our faith, and embrace the wisdom of our ancestors.

Decolonizing spirituality means removing the oppressive structures that tell us how to worship, what to believe, and who to honor. It means acknowledging that spirituality doesn’t belong to a single religion or faith system. Instead, spirituality is a personal journey deeply rooted in ancestral connections, the natural world, and divine feminine power.

Melanated Goddess Circle: A Sacred Space to Reconnect

At Melanated Goddess Circle, we honor the sacred traditions of our ancestors, both African and Indigenous. This community is a safe space for Black women to explore their spiritual paths, free from judgment and societal limitations. We honor the divine feminine energy within each of us and recognize that our spiritual gifts are a continuation of the wisdom passed down through our ancestors.

As we celebrate Indigenous People’s Day, it’s important to reflect on our own spiritual journeys. Ask yourself: How can I honor my ancestors and reclaim the spiritual practices that were taken from me? How can I decolonize my beliefs and embrace the divine wisdom that flows within me?

Simple Ritual to Honor Indigenous People’s Day

Here is a simple ritual you can use to honor your ancestors and connect with the earth on this Indigenous People’s Day.

1. Find a Quiet Space Outdoors: Whether it’s in your backyard, a park, or even your balcony, make sure you’re connecting with nature.
2. Ground Yourself: Stand barefoot on the earth, close your eyes, and take a deep breath. Feel the energy of the ground beneath you.
3. Offer a Prayer or Libation: Pour a small amount of water or another libation onto the earth as you speak a prayer of gratitude to your ancestors and the spirits of the land.
4. Ask for Guidance: Spend a few minutes in quiet reflection, asking for the wisdom of your ancestors to guide you on your spiritual journey. You can hold a crystal, light a candle, or even drum to connect further with your spirit.
5. Express Gratitude: Before concluding, thank the spirits and your ancestors for their protection, guidance, and wisdom. Trust that they will continue to support you as you reconnect with your spiritual power.

Indigenous People’s Day reminds us that spirituality is more than religious dogma; it is a deep, ancestral calling to connect with the earth, honor our roots, and reclaim our power. At Melanated Goddess Circle, we create space for Black women to do just that—to tap into their divine feminine energy and align with their ancestral wisdom. Together, we continue to break the chains of colonization and embrace the fullness of our spiritual identities.

If you’re ready to reclaim your spiritual power, join us in the Melanated Goddess Circle and begin your journey of decolonizing your faith and reconnecting with your roots.