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Finding oneself as an African American involves a journey of self-discovery, exploration, and growth, deeply rooted in understanding and connecting with one's cultural heritage and identity. Here are some steps and considerations:

1. Explore African American History and Culture
- Learn about African American contributions, achievements, and experiences throughout history.
- Study African diasporic cultures, traditions, and customs.
- Engage with African American art, literature, music, and film.

2. Connect with African American Community and Culture
- Attend African American cultural events, festivals, and gatherings.
- Join African American organizations, clubs, or groups that align with your interests.
- Build relationships with African American mentors, role models, and peers.

3. Understand and Embrace Your African Roots
- Research your African ancestry and heritage.
- Learn about African cultures, traditions, and customs.
- Connect with African diasporic communities and cultures.

4. Develop a Strong Sense of Self and Identity
- Recognize and celebrate your African American identity.
- Develop self-awareness, self-acceptance, and self-love.
- Cultivate a positive self-image and self-esteem.

5. Address Internalized Racism and Self-Doubt
- Acknowledge and challenge internalized racism and negative self-talk.
- Practice self-compassion, self-forgiveness, and self-healing.
- Surround yourself with positive, supportive people who affirm your identity.

6. Empower Yourself through Education and Personal Growth
- Pursue education and personal growth opportunities that promote African American cultural awareness and pride.
- Develop skills and knowledge that empower you to make a positive impact in your community.
- Cultivate emotional intelligence, resilience, and adaptability.

7. Connect with Nature and the Environment
- Develop a spiritual connection with nature and the environment.
- Learn about African diasporic spiritual traditions and practices.
- Cultivate a sense of responsibility and stewardship for the planet.

8. Foster Healthy Relationships and Community
- Nurture relationships with family, friends, and community that support your identity and well-being.
- Build strong, positive relationships with African American mentors, role models, and peers.
- Engage in community service and volunteer work that promotes African American empowerment.

9. Practice Self-Care and Wellness
- Prioritize physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
- Engage in self-care practices that promote relaxation, stress reduction, and rejuvenation.
- Cultivate healthy habits and routines that support your overall well-being.

10. Celebrate and Honor Your African American Heritage
- Celebrate African American holidays, traditions, and cultural events.
- Honor African American ancestors, leaders, and contributors.
- Pass down African American cultural traditions and values to future generations.

Remember, finding oneself as an African American is a lifelong journey. Be patient, kind, and compassionate with yourself as you navigate the complexities of identity, culture, and community.

DEFINE

Defining oneself as an African American involves a personal and ongoing process of self-discovery, exploration, and affirmation. Here are some considerations to help you define yourself:

1. Acknowledge and Accept Your African American Identity
- Recognize and accept your African American heritage and cultural background.
- Understand that your identity is complex and multifaceted.

2. Explore Your Family History and Cultural Roots
- Research your African American ancestry and family history.
- Learn about African diasporic cultures, traditions, and customs.

3. Connect with African American Culture and Community
- Engage with African American art, literature, music, and film.
- Attend African American cultural events, festivals, and gatherings.
- Build relationships with African American mentors, role models, and peers.

4. Develop a Positive Self-Image and Self-Esteem
- Cultivate self-awareness, self-acceptance, and self-love.
- Recognize and challenge negative self-talk and internalized racism.
- Surround yourself with positive, supportive people who affirm your identity.

5. Embrace Your African American Experiences and Perspectives
- Acknowledge the historical and ongoing impacts of racism and oppression.
- Validate your experiences and emotions related to being African American.
- Use your perspectives and experiences to empower yourself and others.

6. Define Your Values, Beliefs, and Goals
- Identify your personal values, beliefs, and goals.
- Align your values and goals with your African American identity and cultural principles.
- Use your values and goals to guide your decisions and actions.

7. Embody African American Principles and Values
- Incorporate African diasporic principles and values, such as:
    - Ubuntu (interconnectedness and community)
    - Sankofa (learning from the past)
    - Kujichagulia (self-determination)
    - Umoja (unity)

8. Express Yourself Authentically
- Be true to yourself, without pretenses or apologies.
- Express your African American identity and cultural heritage in ways that feel authentic to you.
- Celebrate your uniqueness and individuality.

9. Continuously Learn and Grow
- Engage in ongoing learning and self-reflection.
- Seek out new experiences, knowledge, and perspectives.
- Continuously grow and evolve as an individual and as an African American.

10. Pass Down Your Knowledge and Cultural Heritage
- Share your knowledge and cultural heritage with others.
- Pass down African American cultural traditions and values to future generations.
- Contribute to the ongoing development and empowerment of African American communities.

REFINE

Refining your African American morals, values, and identity involves a lifelong process of self-reflection, growth, and exploration. Here are some steps to help you refine your African American morals, values, and identity:

1. Study African American History and Culture
- Learn about African American contributions, achievements, and experiences throughout history.
- Study African diasporic cultures, traditions, and customs.
- Engage with African American art, literature, music, and film.

2. Connect with African American Community and Elders
- Attend African American cultural events, festivals, and gatherings.
- Build relationships with African American mentors, role models, and peers.
- Seek guidance from African American elders and community leaders.

3. Reflect on Your Personal Values and Morals
- Identify your personal values and morals.
- Reflect on how your values and morals align with African American cultural principles.
- Consider how you can incorporate African American values and morals into your daily life.

4. Develop a Strong Sense of Self and Identity
- Cultivate self-awareness, self-acceptance, and self-love.
- Recognize and challenge internalized racism and negative self-talk.
- Surround yourself with positive, supportive people who affirm your identity.

5. Embody African American Principles and Values
- Incorporate African diasporic principles and values, such as:
    - Ubuntu (interconnectedness and community)
    - Sankofa (learning from the past)
    - Kujichagulia (self-determination)
    - Umoja (unity)
- Apply these principles and values to your daily life, relationships, and community engagement.

6. Practice Critical Thinking and Media Literacy
- Critically evaluate information and media representation.
- Recognize and challenge stereotypes, biases, and misinformation.
- Seek out diverse perspectives and sources of information.

7. Engage in Community Service and Activism
- Participate in community service and volunteer work that promotes African American empowerment.
- Engage in activism and advocacy efforts that address social justice issues affecting African American communities.
- Use your voice and actions to create positive change.

8. Cultivate Emotional Intelligence and Resilience
- Develop emotional intelligence and self-awareness.
- Cultivate resilience and coping strategies to manage stress and adversity.
- Prioritize self-care and wellness.

9. Seek Out Mentors and Role Models
- Identify African American mentors and role models who embody the values and principles you aspire to.
- Seek guidance and support from these individuals.
- Learn from their experiences and wisdom.

10. Continuously Learn and Grow
- Engage in ongoing learning and self-reflection.
- Seek out new experiences, knowledge, and perspectives.
- Continuously grow and evolve as an individual and as an African American.

SYMBOLS OF HONOR AND UNIFICATION