Honoring our Queen Mothers in Women’s History Month
Ronn Bunn (C) with granddaughter Pharah and daughter Rona
As owner, publisher and editor-in-chief of Routes Magazine, I remain determined to draw parallels between African and African-American cultural ties. This month we have honored of Women’s History Month by drawing upon our ancestral connection to our ‘Queen Mothers,’ both past and present.
Traditions of Queen Mother came with us from Africa and found its way into church life hierarchy even in the earliest days of colonial America. Though their potency and empowerment was lessened to conform to European dominated religious institutions, Queen Mothers are still prevalent within the Baptist Church leadership.
Living in a time when so many of our mothers, daughters and sisters are stepping into official roles with titles that range from CEO, Astronaut, Supreme Court Justice, and Madame Vice President, we gave pause throughout this month to celebrate women within our community who are deserving of the mantle. We covered African-American visual artist Faith Ringgold to a concert review of the Mali-born musician Fatoumata Diawara. We offered deep dive into local arts leader Barbara Ann Teer and her National Black Theater which proudly stood in Harlem until recently. And, we have reported on the advancements of the women leading the way in STEM and STEAM education, paving the way for the young ladies of future generations. What’s more, almost all of our articles were written by our wonder women, our female correspondents inclusive of an article on women cartoonist and comicbook writers.
As Publisher and Editor of Routes, I recognize that we must work together to buld awareness and support our Queens. As a proud son to a strong and spirited mother, I celebrate her reign of what is now 100 years. As a father to a successful and empowered daughter, I can see how much things have changed, and yet, how much further we still must go for the sake of my granddaughter.
So as we close out Women’s History Month, I invite you to take a moment to think on the queen mothers in your life. Bless and thank your heroes both past and present. And, feel free to share them with us in the comment sections within this and each article.
I hope you will not only join us and stay current with our publication, but subscribe to our free Newsletter. A blank subscription form is located in the column to the right.
Excellently written Mr. Bunn.
There’s a collective spiritual energy – an amalgamation of various femininities (regardless of gender) circling within and around from deep inside DNA to the outter reaches of known space in the universe of all things known and unknown. Surely you feel this residence deeply?
Such is necessary to write the article.
I call her the “Queen of Compton “. She dance across the sky one night in California. I love to show you the photo. Safe travels back to Munchen sir.
Drea & 🌟♏️❤️♏️🌍
Enjoyed dancing on the sidewalk in Brooklyn with y’all!