#bahamian music

[iloveethnicities]

Afro-Bahamians are a vibrant and integral part of the Bahamas' cultural and historical landscape. They are the descendants of Africans who were brought to the islands during the transatlantic slave trade, as well as free Africans who migrated to the region. Today, Afro-Bahamians make up the majority of the population of the Bahamas and are a driving force behind the nation’s cultural, social, and economic life. This demographic group has played a central role in shaping the Bahamas’ distinctive identity, from its traditional music, dance, cuisine, and crafts to its religious practices and social customs.

Afro-Bahamians trace their origins primarily to West Africa, where millions of Africans were forcibly transported to the Caribbean and Americas between the 16th and 19th centuries. The Bahamas became a British colony in 1718, which brought with it an increase in the importation of enslaved Africans. While the islands’ initial European settlers were small in number and primarily pirates and traders, by the late 18th century, the British began to establish plantations, and the islands became a site of intense slave labor. However, compared to other Caribbean nations, the Bahamas had fewer plantations and less intensive agricultural development, which somewhat affected the social dynamics of the enslaved population.

The abolition of the slave trade in 1807 and the emancipation of enslaved people across the British Empire in 1834 marked significant turning points for Afro-Bahamians. After emancipation, many formerly enslaved Afro-Bahamians established free communities, creating a distinctive Afro-Bahamian society and culture. Over time, Afro-Bahamians became skilled fishermen, farmers, artisans, and, later, professionals in various sectors as the country transitioned into a more diversified economy.

A significant wave of Black immigrants arrived in the Bahamas during the 19th century as well, when freed Africans from the United States and other Caribbean nations, particularly Haitians, Cubans, and Jamaicans, settled in the Bahamas. These immigrants helped to diversify and enrich the Afro-Bahamian culture by adding their own languages, customs, and cultural practices.

English is the official language of the Bahamas, but Afro-Bahamians have developed their own distinct dialect known as Bahamian Creole or Bahamian English. Bahamian Creole is marked by African influences, mixed with English vocabulary and syntax, and carries unique idioms and expressions that reflect Afro-Bahamian life. This Creole reflects both the resilience and adaptability of Afro-Bahamians, who have maintained elements of African linguistic heritage while adapting to European languages.

The Afro-Bahamian identity is also shaped by a strong sense of community and an emphasis on kinship. Family structures are often extended, and intergenerational bonds are highly valued. Afro-Bahamians frequently emphasize family reputation, community support, and respect for elders, with these values reinforced in cultural practices, festivals, and everyday interactions.

Religion is a central aspect of Afro-Bahamian culture, and the majority of Afro-Bahamians identify as Christians, particularly in denominations like Baptist, Anglican, and Pentecostal churches. Afro-Bahamian churches have their unique worship styles that incorporate vibrant music, call-and-response singing, and emotional expression during services, reflecting African religious traditions and practices. Many Afro-Bahamians engage in all-night prayer meetings, often called “watch nights,” as well as revival and testimonial services that highlight community solidarity and spiritual resilience.

Beyond Christianity, some Afro-Bahamians also retain African-derived spiritual practices and beliefs. Elements of Obeah, a form of African-rooted spirituality, exist within Bahamian society. Although officially discouraged and often misunderstood, Obeah encompasses healing practices, folk medicine, and a deep understanding of nature. This spiritual heritage is sometimes practiced in secrecy but remains a part of Afro-Bahamian cultural memory.

Afro-Bahamians are the heart of Bahamian culture, with their unique contributions in music, dance, cuisine, and festivals. Perhaps the most iconic aspect of Afro-Bahamian culture is Junkanoo, a vibrant and colorful street parade featuring elaborate costumes, rhythmic music, and choreographed dancing. Junkanoo’s origins are deeply rooted in African cultural practices, emerging as a form of expression among enslaved Africans who celebrated their temporary freedom during the Christmas season. Today, Junkanoo is held annually during Christmas and New Year’s, with its music driven by goatskin drums, brass instruments, whistles, and cowbells, creating a highly energetic atmosphere. The costumes, which take months to design and assemble, are typically made from crepe paper and cardboard, with intricate patterns inspired by both African and Caribbean motifs.

Music is also central to Afro-Bahamian culture, with genres such as rake-and-scrape, Goombay, and calypso all playing significant roles in the musical landscape. Rake-and-scrape, in particular, is a Bahamian folk music genre that originated in the Afro-Bahamian community. Played with simple instruments like the saw, drums, and accordion, it is known for its syncopated rhythms and themes of everyday life, love, and hardship. These music genres have become anthems of Bahamian life and have influenced regional Caribbean music and even international pop and reggae.

Afro-Bahamian cuisine is an equally important cultural marker. Afro-Bahamian dishes are often a fusion of African, Caribbean, and British flavors, featuring ingredients such as conch, fish, peas, and rice. Popular dishes include conch salad, cracked conch, peas and rice, and guava duff, a dessert made from guava fruit wrapped in dough. The use of spices and cooking techniques reflects African culinary traditions adapted to the island’s available resources, creating a distinct flavor profile that is integral to Bahamian identity.

Afro-Bahamians have played a critical role in the Bahamas’ social and political spheres, especially as the country moved toward independence from British colonial rule in 1973. Historically, Afro-Bahamians faced social and economic discrimination, with political and economic power concentrated in the hands of the white minority. However, with the growth of the Black Bahamian middle class and increased education opportunities, Afro-Bahamians began to demand equal rights and political representation.

In 1953, the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) was founded, becoming the first major political party in the Bahamas and a vehicle for Afro-Bahamian empowerment. The PLP advocated for equal rights, improved working conditions, and economic opportunities for Afro-Bahamians. The party was instrumental in leading the Bahamas to independence, with Sir Lynden Pindling, an Afro-Bahamian, becoming the first Prime Minister of an independent Bahamas. The PLP’s leadership marked a new era in Bahamian politics, with policies aimed at empowering the Afro-Bahamian community and promoting national unity.

Today, Afro-Bahamians continue to shape the political landscape of the Bahamas, holding positions in government, business, and civil society. Issues such as education reform, economic empowerment, and social equality remain central to Afro-Bahamian leaders’ agendas, and they have had considerable success in addressing these issues. Afro-Bahamians remain active in advocating for fair wages, affordable housing, and healthcare access, all crucial to improving the quality of life across Bahamian society.

Despite their progress, Afro-Bahamians continue to face challenges in contemporary society. Economic disparities persist, with a significant portion of the Afro-Bahamian population engaged in low-income or seasonal jobs, often in the tourism sector. Limited access to higher education and disparities in wealth distribution pose challenges for many Afro-Bahamians seeking to improve their economic standing. Furthermore, some communities struggle with crime, lack of infrastructure, and limited resources, which reflect broader social and economic issues impacting Afro-Bahamians.

In recent years, a movement to reconnect with African heritage has emerged within the Afro-Bahamian community, encouraging younger generations to learn about African history and reclaim elements of their cultural identity. Educational programs, cultural festivals, and organizations dedicated to African heritage have become popular, helping foster a sense of pride and identity among Afro-Bahamians.

The future of Afro-Bahamians is closely tied to the overall trajectory of the Bahamas as it navigates globalization, tourism dependency, and social change. As Afro-Bahamians continue to advocate for better opportunities, cultural preservation, and economic stability, they remain a central and resilient part of the Bahamas’ national identity. Their contributions, both past and present, are celebrated as vital to the spirit, strength, and vibrancy of Bahamian culture.

Afro-Bahamians are all involved in tourism

Peas and Rice

Massage With Herbal Oils

Folk Costume

Natural Dyes

Goombay Drum Making

The Sea Woman of Andros

Bahamas Independence Day

Oral Tradition And Storytelling

"She gorn by de shop, she coming back soon."

Feasting And Communal Meals

[bahamian-mami]

Bahamian-mami

[iloveethnicities]

Afro-Bahamians are all involved in tourism.

The perception that Afro-Bahamians are primarily or exclusively involved in the tourism industry is a stereotype that fails to capture the rich diversity of roles they occupy across the Bahamas’ social and economic landscape. While it is true that tourism plays a major role in the Bahamian economy—contributing nearly half of the country’s GDP and employing a significant portion of the workforce—Afro-Bahamians are not limited to this sector. The breadth and depth of their contributions span industries as diverse as education, government, healthcare, finance, agriculture, technology, and the arts, demonstrating the multifaceted nature of their involvement in Bahamian society.

In the field of business, many Afro-Bahamians are successful entrepreneurs who own and operate companies in sectors such as real estate, retail, consulting, and manufacturing. They contribute to economic growth by creating jobs, developing new markets, and driving local innovation. Afro-Bahamian business leaders often play an instrumental role in initiatives to support small businesses and foster economic independence, helping to reduce reliance on tourism by expanding the economic base. This entrepreneurial spirit, rooted in resilience and adaptability, reflects a long history of Afro-Bahamians cultivating self-sufficiency and building enterprises within their communities.

In healthcare, Afro-Bahamians serve as doctors, nurses, specialists, administrators, and public health officials who are essential to the well-being of the nation. They work across both urban and rural areas, bringing healthcare access to communities throughout the islands. Afro-Bahamian medical professionals not only deliver quality care but also engage in health education, preventative care, and public health initiatives that address issues such as diabetes, hypertension, and other health challenges affecting Bahamian communities. These contributions are vital to maintaining public health infrastructure and ensuring the long-term well-being of the population.

Education is another sector where Afro-Bahamians have made significant strides. Afro-Bahamian educators, from teachers to professors, school administrators, and policymakers, are dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities for young Bahamians. Their efforts have been instrumental in raising educational standards, developing culturally relevant curricula, and expanding access to education. Furthermore, many Afro-Bahamian academics and researchers contribute to the study of Bahamian history, culture, and social issues, enriching the intellectual landscape of the nation. These contributions empower the next generation, foster national pride, and challenge misconceptions by educating the public on the depth and diversity of Bahamian culture.

Government and public service are also fields in which Afro-Bahamians have historically played leading roles. Many Afro-Bahamians hold key positions in government as ministers, diplomats, civil servants, and policy advisors. They work to shape policies that address issues such as social equity, environmental sustainability, and economic development, advocating for the interests of all Bahamians. Through public service, Afro-Bahamians have helped guide the Bahamas through significant milestones, from independence to contemporary governance challenges. Their leadership has been essential to fostering a political landscape that represents and supports the diverse needs of Bahamian citizens.

In recent years, Afro-Bahamians have also made significant inroads in technology and innovation. The growth of digital technology, e-commerce, and tech startups in the Bahamas has been bolstered by Afro-Bahamian entrepreneurs and innovators who see the potential for technology to diversify the economy. Through their work, they are expanding the nation’s presence in the global digital economy, creating high-skill jobs, and promoting technological literacy. These advancements help reduce the country's reliance on tourism by opening up new avenues for economic growth and demonstrating that the Bahamas can compete in technology and innovation on a global scale.

The arts, culture, and entertainment sectors also showcase the contributions of Afro-Bahamians, who are celebrated worldwide for their creativity in music, dance, visual arts, literature, and film. Afro-Bahamian artists often draw on their heritage to create works that reflect the struggles, triumphs, and spirit of the Bahamian people, contributing to a vibrant cultural identity that extends beyond the Bahamas. The world-renowned Junkanoo festival, a traditional Bahamian celebration rooted in Afro-Bahamian culture, exemplifies the nation’s unique cultural heritage and continues to attract global recognition. Afro-Bahamian writers, musicians, and performers frequently explore themes of identity, resilience, and history, helping to define and share Bahamian culture far beyond its borders.

In essence, Afro-Bahamians play integral roles in virtually every sector of Bahamian society. Their contributions go far beyond tourism, encompassing leadership, innovation, and expertise that shape the nation’s identity and economic future. Dispelling the myth that Afro-Bahamians are confined to tourism not only acknowledges these achievements but also honors the diversity, resilience, and dedication that Afro-Bahamians bring to their communities and country. By recognizing these contributions, we gain a fuller, more accurate understanding of Afro-Bahamians’ impact and the breadth of Bahamian culture and society as a whole.

[tallyhallinsane]

"GAH Joe Hawley you precious soul that I wanna strangle to death"

[iloveethnicities]

The Bahamas Independence Day, celebrated on July 10th, commemorates the day in 1973 when The Bahamas became a fully independent nation, free from British colonial rule. This day stands as one of the most significant celebrations in the country’s history, marking a moment of national pride and unity. Bahamians around the world come together on this date to honor their culture, heritage, and the journey toward self-determination. The annual observance is filled with grand ceremonies, colorful parades, traditional music, and festivities that reflect the rich Afro-Bahamian cultural identity and the achievements of the Bahamian people.

The Bahamas had been a British colony since the 18th century, with Nassau serving as a key colonial port in the Caribbean. Although slavery was abolished in 1834, the islands remained under British rule, with Bahamians facing restricted political power and limited opportunities for self-governance for many years. However, beginning in the mid-20th century, a growing movement for independence took shape. Inspired by global waves of decolonization, and with the support of leaders from the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP), such as Sir Lynden Pindling, Bahamians increasingly voiced their desire for self-governance.

The path toward independence was a peaceful one, achieved through negotiations with the British government. On July 10, 1973, the Bahamas became a sovereign nation and joined the Commonwealth of Nations, marking a new era in Bahamian history. Sir Lynden Pindling became the country's first Prime Minister, and the Bahamian flag was raised as the Union Jack was lowered, symbolizing the end of colonial rule.

Independence Day in The Bahamas is celebrated with an array of events that last for several days, sometimes beginning in early July and leading up to July 10th. The festivities are vibrant and showcase various aspects of Bahamian culture.

One of the most anticipated events is the flag-raising ceremony, which takes place at Clifford Park in Nassau. Dignitaries, government officials, and citizens gather to witness the hoisting of the Bahamian flag, accompanied by the national anthem, "March On, Bahamaland." This ceremony is a highly emotional moment, symbolizing Bahamian pride, resilience, and unity. Often, speeches from political leaders, including the Prime Minister and Governor-General, are delivered, emphasizing national progress and unity.

Junkanoo, a traditional Bahamian parade featuring colorful costumes, music, and dance, is a hallmark of Bahamian celebrations, and it takes center stage during Independence Day. Bahamians take to the streets in elaborate, vibrant costumes, playing instruments such as drums, cowbells, horns, and whistles. The parades feature competitive performances from different groups, each vying for the best display. Junkanoo has roots in West African traditions and was historically associated with holidays given to enslaved Africans; today, it represents Bahamian identity and cultural pride.

Throughout the islands, local festivals and events showcase Bahamian arts, crafts, cuisine, and music. These events include Rake and Scrape music performances, an iconic Afro-Bahamian genre characterized by rhythmic use of hand saws, drums, and accordions. Food stalls offer traditional Bahamian dishes such as conch fritters, cracked conch, peas and rice, and johnnycake, providing a culinary experience that reflects the Bahamian heritage.

Church services play a central role in Independence Day celebrations. Given the deeply religious nature of Bahamian society, ecumenical services are held in many communities to give thanks and pray for the nation's continued prosperity. These services include hymns, sermons, and prayers led by Christian leaders from various denominations. The church service serves as a reminder of the role faith has played in the resilience and perseverance of the Bahamian people throughout their history.

Independence Day is a time for Bahamians to come together with family and friends. Many people spend the day outdoors, often at beaches or public parks, enjoying picnics and barbecues. It’s a day for Bahamians to relax, bond with loved ones, and celebrate their shared history. Activities such as beach games, boat races, and fireworks displays add to the joyful atmosphere.

The night sky is illuminated by a grand fireworks display that takes place across various islands. Fireworks light up the sky as a final gesture of celebration, symbolizing the brightness and hope of The Bahamas' future. The fireworks are visible from many locations, and families gather to watch and enjoy the final event of the day.

Bahamas Independence Day is more than just a public holiday; it represents the Bahamian people's journey toward freedom, self-identity, and empowerment. For Afro-Bahamians, Independence Day is particularly meaningful, honoring the resilience of ancestors who endured slavery and colonialism yet held onto their culture, traditions, and aspirations. It is a celebration of the unique African heritage that permeates Bahamian culture, from music and dance to cuisine and religious practices.

The Independence Day celebrations are a time when Bahamians express national pride and gratitude for the progress their nation has made. It also serves as an educational moment, particularly for younger generations, to learn about their nation’s history, the significance of independence, and the contributions of leaders who worked toward a sovereign Bahamas.

Certain symbols are particularly important during Independence Day celebrations, as they represent Bahamian independence and unity:

— The Bahamian Flag: The flag, with its black, aquamarine, and gold colors, represents the people, the islands, and the natural wealth of the country. The flag is prominently displayed during celebrations.

— The Coat of Arms: Depicting elements such as a conch shell, flamingo, and blue marlin, the coat of arms symbolizes the country’s maritime heritage and diverse natural environment.

— The National Anthem: "March On, Bahamaland" serves as a reminder of national resilience and hope.

As The Bahamas is home to a large diaspora, especially in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, Independence Day is celebrated internationally by Bahamians abroad. Events held in cities with large Bahamian communities often feature parades, concerts, and cultural showcases, allowing Bahamians worldwide to partake in the festivities and connect with their heritage.

Each year, the Bahamian government and local communities strive to make the celebration grander than the last. The Bahamian independence celebration has become a significant tourist attraction, with visitors from around the world coming to experience the colorful parades, music, and hospitality that characterize Bahamian Independence Day.

Bahamas Independence Day is a celebration of freedom, heritage, and pride, uniquely blending political significance with cultural festivities. As a symbol of Afro-Bahamian resilience and creativity, the holiday honors the progress and unity of the Bahamian people and their enduring sense of identity. Through ceremonies, parades, family gatherings, and festive displays, Bahamians continue to celebrate their rich cultural legacy, ensuring that the spirit of independence remains alive for future generations.

Exuma — "Run, Come See, Jerusalem"

[bahamian-mami]

Bahamian-mami

@2in._kyung/instagram

[king-of-bottoms]

current fav

[realitypumpkin]

SHIFTING BLOG !

INTRO !

name : cindi/capri/calli

pronouns : she/her

poc shifter (black, cuban, cherokee, bahamian)

main drs : stranger things, fame, enhypen, own gg

interact please !

shifters (any kind !)

poc shifters

music lovers (any kind of music !)

kpop stans

non kpop stans

subliminal users/makers

stay away from me !

racist

homophobic

sexist

anti shifters

anti permashifters

shifting police (lol)

murder drs

stan list !

p1harmony

enhypen

aespa

newjeans

kiss of life

illit

nmixx

vcha

unis

le sserafim

ive

stayc

purplekiss

gidle

meovv

katseye

blackswan

[oc-smashorpass]

from my work in progress webcomic, traversion. ka'meisha is my beautiful blind bisexual bahamian babygirl who deserves everything, actually. 5'9". she/her only. she genuinely enjoys long walks on the beach but loves getting in the water more! will teach you how to swim if you don't.

she works as the live music at a rooftop bar in miami. incredibly extroverted, if you catch her after a set, she might share a drink with you! but hers will always be alcohol free. also in college for marine biology.

just be kind and don't touch her or her cane w/o permission and she'll enjoy your company <3

oc by @ackee !

[bahamian-mami]

Bahamian-mami

[kaitlicious]

💋 Heyyy, divas! 💋 I’m Kait, the teen queen who was put on earth to be an icon. Half German, half Bahamian, living my most unbothered, fab life in London. I’m a photography student and part-time model. And yes, I've graced Vogue so it's official, babes. I'm pretty active on Spacehey. You should add me if you don't already have me added. Click here 2 see my hot profile!

My hobbies are coding & making 2000's graphics, baking sweet treats, snapping cinematic photographs, building my music collection, getting dolled up, causing controversy online, going on random side missions and shopping 'til I drop, duhhh.

Something I cannot live without is music. My number one? Ayesha Erotica. She's my saviour mwah! Her music could lift my mood no matter the circumstances.. It's basically free therapy. But honestly anything clubby, slutty and loud is on my playlist.

[theliterarywolf]

Can I have an explanation as to what is the Fyre Festival(?) I don't know if I'm too young or not American enough to know ^^''

Long story short, watch this

Short story long and I mean long, so a good portion in will have a Read More break for the sake of people's dashboards:

We have a trust-fund baby by the name of Billy McFarland. Full-on too much allowance and money from mommy and daddy and nowhere near enough brains to use it.

Billy calls himself making a black card (credit cards for obnoxiously wealthy people) company called Magnises where the premise is basically

Billy: 'Why, yes, this is a money-sink of what is already a money-sink, but with this you get amazing deals on concerts and meeting celebrities~!'

Anyone dumb enough to sign up: 'Um... Okay, at least that last part sounds good. How does it work?'

Billy: 'That's the neat part! IT DOESN'T!'

So anyone would think 'okay, you can't even make something as simple as a customized credit card work, maybe you should stay away from business and investments for a bit'. Not Billy! Because during some big party or whatever, he happened to meet the famous (to some people) rapper Ja Rule! And they got to talking and decided 'why don't we throw a music festival with high-profile acts in the Bahamas?!'

So they actually flew out to Great Exuma with a bunch of influencer thots and Instagram models and lived it up to the fullest. Why? So they could get promo material for a festival that literally didn't even exist.

So determined were they to get this footage that when one model expressed discomfort at getting into a swimming pool (it was getting late and she was cold), Ja Rule told her to, quote, 'Get your ass in the damn pool'.

So they got this footage and started promoting online. And they sold out! Awesome, right? For them to see how much interest they got had to mean that they realized they needed to get infrastructure and hospitality squared away, right?

Ha ha -- WRONG.

Because even other people who were employed by Billy and Ja Rule were telling them, begging them 'we need at least 2 years to pull off something like this'.

But remember! Billy McFarland has horrific denial issues! So he kept insisting that they could make it happen! Also, something something -- taking out a bunch of short-term loans that he couldn't afford to default on -- something.

So they go full steam ahead!

...By not paying the local laborers they hired, the restaurant-owner they hired, the staff they hired--

But, traloo-traley! They day eventually arrives! Excited festival-goers are hopping on their flights to the Bahamas, expecting the highest luxury that their $1200 tickets could pay for.

By the way, is it... too late to mention that tickets only ranged from $500 to $1200? For a two week music festival? With all amenities included? IN THE FUCKING BAHAMAS?!

Festival-goers step out of the airport and are directed onto a school bus. ...Okay. Where they are then driven to a pretty miserable looking beach. ...Okay. Where they see a swathe of disaster-relief tents.

Welcome to Fyre Festival*!

*Note: The Festival barely ended up lasting two days from a combination of festival-goers seeing the shitshow, trying to leave but not having any spending money (because the Festival was advertised as cashless), and eventually being rounded up by the Bahamian Government and taken back to the airport.

Also: In addition to the festival-goers being promised premium accommodations that turned out to be those disaster-relief tents, they were promised fine dining which those who arrived early got... At the expense of the restaurant owner who was never paid... But the rest were granted the boon of withered salad greens and 'sandwiches' made of limp bread and Government-Approved Cheese-Product (TM).

And all of this doesn't even go into the rumors of wild dog attacks, festival-goers attacking and stealing supplies from each other, Billy asking one of the event-planners, an elderly gentleman who was supposedly a long-time friend of his, to go to the head of Bahamian Customs and offer to suck his dick so they could import some drinking water, and of course Billy's scumbag denial about anything going wrong, about needing to pay his employees in the aftermath, or his eventual jail-time.

But this already got so long so, if anyone wants me to elaborate on anything else, it would have to be in response to a second ask.

[xxoxobree]

Hi love I would like match ups with miles 1610/42 :)

~ Personality: I’m a sweet and chill person, I can be quiet at times but I talk the most if comfortable, I’m a goofball, clingy, I can be mean to show love at times, caring and lovable.

~ looks: a I’m 5’5 brown skin with thick natural red/burgundy locs, dark brown eyes, thick, slim in the waist (with a little pudge)

~ likes: to joke around (not too much), sunsets, drives/walks at night, music, sleeping, food, street wear clothing, and giving gifts !

~ dislikes: bullies, a self-centered person, hypocrites, trends, and carrots (LOL all I can think of)

~hobbies: gaming, drawing/sketching, listening to music, reading, playing flag football

~music taste: partynextdoor, Ken Carson, playboi carti, reggae, Afro beats, dancehall, R&B, alternative rock, metal

1+ 🇧🇸🇯🇲, can be very competitive

You Bahamian!! Had go bei ? I’m Bahamian too, clearly 🤪😘

So Cousin 🫶🏽 I understand you completely, I think you’re a:

Miles 1610 girl

You said you’re a sweet person and you need the loverist lover boy to keep you sweet and he’s exactly that. 🥰

Loves that you’d always wanna be with him, holds your hand 24/7.

You may be reluctant to express love, but he’d pull it out of you for sure, it’s literally hard not to love him. Teases when you do it because he knows that it’s something you don’t normally do and you do it because it’s him.

Wraps his long are,s around your tiny waist all the time, he’s probably more clingy than you are.

She. You’re quiet he just admires you and throws out little compliments that are on his mind.

From New York so he definitely knows all the Dancehall songs, he would be more into culture than dancehall tho. Ask you what some of the lyrics are, shocked face when you do explain so,Emory the terms.

Suggest styles for you to put your locks in.

Sorry if this was short.

[6-and-7]

There's like a 60% chance this won't go anywhere but if you could pick a song to go with each Avatar in the Sunset Archives, what would you choose? I've gotten a new case of brainworms from your stuff and now I'm learning how to use editing software. Also do you know any good editing software.

Thanks for the ask, but also oh jeez. this has never been my forte. ask me again after the music tourney and maybe I'll have a more complete/better answer for you, but off the top of my head...

Buried Avatars: Applejack: Work Song (traditional) Maud Pie et. al.: Another Brick in the Wall (Pink Floyd) Aria Blaze: ???

Corruption Avatars: Cadance: Lovefool (The Cardigans), or possibly Sweet Bod (Lemon Demon) Chrysalis: Thermodynamic Lawyer Esq., G.F.D. (Will Wood) (Bonus Zephyr Breeze, because I seriously considered it: Greener (Tally Hall)

Dark Avatars: Sombra: Strangelight (Fugazi) Twilight Sparkle: No-Eyed Girl (Lemon Demon)

Desolation Avatars: Autumn Blaze: Cigarette Burns Forever (Adam Green)

End Avatars: Yeah I got nothing for Apple Bloom or Juniper Montage.

Extinction Avatars: Button Mash: Welcome to the Internet (Bo Burnham) Lyra Heartstrings: Best I've got so far is Christmas at Ground Zero (Weird Al Yankovic), but that's more an elaborate pun on her statement

Eye Avatars: Sunset Shimmer: House of Memories (Panic! At The Disco) Jon Jarchivist Sims: Veteran of the Psychic Wars (Blue Oyster Cult)

Flesh Avatars: Big Macintosh: No, sorry, got nothing.

Hunt Avatars: Fluttershy: Night Eyes (The Orion Experience) Sonata Dusk: Jaws theme Lily: Be Nice to Me (The Front Bottoms)

Lonely Avatars: Wallflower Blush: Eleanor Rigby (The Beatles) Martin Blackwood: Too Much Time (John Vanderslice)

Slaughter Avatars: Crystal Prep: Seven Nation Army (The White Stripes) Starlight Glimmer: 1812 Overture (Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky) Gilda: We Will Rock You/We Are The Champions (Queen)

Spiral Avatars: Screwball: Go Ask Alice (Jefferson Airplane) Pinkie Pie: Bahamian Rap City (Joe Hawley) Ditzy Doo: Windmills of Your Mind (Noel Harrison)

Stranger Avatars: Vignette Valencia: A Mask of My Own Face (Lemon Demon) Rarity: ???

Vast Avatars: The Washouts: ??? Rainbow Dash: ???

Web Avatars: Adagio Dazzle: I Put a Spell on You (Hocus Pocus version) Trixie: Funeral March of a Marionette (Charles Gounod)

Also, wdym by editing software? Editing what?

[iloveethnicities]

Feasting and communal meals are integral to Afro-Bahamian religious and cultural practices, reflecting the deep interconnection between spirituality, community, and sustenance. These gatherings often transcend the act of eating, serving as sacred moments of fellowship, ritualistic devotion, and cultural continuity. The tradition draws from African ancestral practices, where food and communal sharing symbolize unity, respect for the divine, and a way of honoring the spirits of ancestors.

In Afro-Bahamian religious contexts, such as Obeah, Junkanoo-related ceremonies, and syncretic Christian traditions, feasting is not merely a social event. It frequently marks a spiritual occasion such as a birth, death, healing ritual, or a religious festival. The preparation and sharing of food can be seen as a form of offering to deities, spirits, or ancestors. Specific dishes are often prepared with spiritual intent, incorporating elements believed to attract blessings, protection, or favor.

For example, certain foods might be imbued with spiritual power through prayer or rituals before being shared. The act of eating together is often accompanied by singing, drumming, and storytelling, enhancing the spiritual ambiance. The communal meal becomes a sacred space for the transmission of oral traditions, collective worship, and spiritual rejuvenation.

Types of Foods

The foods served during these gatherings are steeped in symbolic meaning and are typically influenced by African culinary traditions, local ingredients, and colonial history. Staples include rice, peas, fish, cassava, plantains, and various root vegetables. Dishes like pigeon peas and rice, conch salad, and fried fish often take center stage. Additionally, specific herbs and spices might be included for their purported spiritual or medicinal properties.

Traditional beverages, such as bush teas made from local plants, may also feature prominently. These drinks are sometimes believed to have protective or purifying qualities, particularly when consumed during spiritual ceremonies.

Role in Mourning and Ancestor Worship

In Afro-Bahamian mourning practices, communal meals are essential components of wakes and other post-funeral rituals. These meals serve dual purposes: comforting the grieving family and honoring the deceased. Special foods might be prepared to reflect the tastes or cultural identity of the departed, and portions are sometimes symbolically set aside for the ancestors or spirits.

These events often include prayers and libations, where drinks or portions of food are poured out as offerings to the spirits. The shared meal thus becomes a bridge between the living and the dead, reinforcing communal bonds and the continuity of the spiritual lineage.

During festivals like Junkanoo, feasting takes on a celebratory character. Massive spreads of traditional dishes are prepared, and eating together becomes a way of celebrating cultural identity and resilience. These meals are often accompanied by music, dance, and vibrant storytelling, reflecting the joyful and communal spirit of the occasion.

In healing rituals, communal meals might feature foods prepared according to specific spiritual instructions. For instance, participants may fast or abstain from certain foods before the ritual and then break the fast together with a specially prepared meal. The act of eating together reinforces communal support and symbolizes the restoration of balance and harmony within the individual and the group.

Cultural and Social Dimensions

Beyond their spiritual importance, feasting and communal meals in Afro-Bahamian religious practices function as social equalizers. They create spaces where community members of all ages and social standings can come together as equals. The preparation of these meals often involves collective effort, further fostering unity and cooperation.

Feasting and communal meals in Afro-Bahamian religious traditions are deeply symbolic acts that blend spiritual, cultural, and social elements. They provide a platform for honoring ancestors, expressing gratitude to the divine, fostering communal ties, and celebrating shared heritage. These gatherings continue to serve as a vital expression of Afro-Bahamian identity and spirituality, ensuring that the traditions of the past are preserved and passed down through generations.