Spirituality has long been a bedrock for us. From worshiping the deities of the Yoruba before enslavement to incorporating those practices into Christianity to survive it, spirituality has kept Black people alive for centuries. Now, it's offering us something else.
Constantly facing racial injustice, coupled with the isolation of the pandemic, has many of us returning to our roots through spirituality, but not necessarily religion.
The wellness industry, up to this point, has been dominated by white faces. Now we have found a corner of the market for ourselves. Entrepreneurs like Jasminesgarden23 on TikTok and Shontel Anastasia are teaching our community and profiting in return.
Up to 30% of Black people say they pray to their ancestors for guidance, and 20% have altars in their homes. Some of our people with the spiritual knowledge, resources, and ingenuity sell everything from readings to candles and ritual teachings.
Sharing and giving back to our community has always been a massive part of Black culture. What better way to do that than to share our knowledge and craft of spirituality and benefit financially, too? We are rebuilding and reshaping the Black community from its foundation up.