Wakanda PR
Wakanda was presented as the birthplace of the Black Panther. The most noticeable from the very beginning was the deep respect and appreciation that the Black Panther and the other ‘natives’ had for their homeland. It was evident in the way they spoke of it, so much so that before entering Wakanda there was a desire to go there. At no point was the viewer left to consider that Wakanda could be anything but pure perfection.
Now, let’s contrast such with our regard for our respective Caribbean localities. Do we offer the same to others looking upon our isles? Of course, depending on the context, some might speak of the crime and other social challenges. Yet, and this is with deep regard for lost lives, despite all the mass shootings at school, many of us willingly uproot families and place our children in schools abroad. How can that be? Could it be because the United States of America and some other countries promote their Wakanda?
However, to not fall into the trap of poor Wakanda PR, it was good to note recently The Bahamas being advocated as a desirable vacation spot for those wishing an escape from the cold, but much more room for improvement.
Wakanda Diaspora
Just as we Caribbean folk have our Diaspora, it was interesting to note how the ‘Wakandan’ people were dispersed throughout the Americas making their contributions. In this regard as a region, we do seem well on our way. What was more interesting with this diaspora was that they shared a biographical sameness (watch the movie). This is where we can learn something from our leaders when it comes right down it, do we as a diaspora present unity when we speak? Are we working toward the same shared goals that might strengthen our diaspora despite differences? The struggle is real, and it was quite evident as we watched the movie. This struggle to keep on the table the main thing as the main thing. This struggle to not let past miscommunications and inherited hurts damage future regional prospects. So, while we are riding this ‘Black Panther’ wave, hopefully, such would remain.
Wakanda Covering
The wisdom in not having oneself exposed to the outside World was strong with Wakanda. Understandably, anyone would wonder how it might be possible within our global village and with such advanced technologies to do this? Oh, just ask those locations that understand the power of patent, copyright, and trademark! Wakanda valued its precious resources. Do we? Independently and collectively, do we? Wakanda saved their precious resources and made sure to preserve some for the future even growing precious plants for future use. Again, without meaning to belabour a point, do we?
Wakanda Loyalty
He asked, “my darling would you…,” and she replied, “For Wakanda, yes!” For those who have seen and who would view the movie such might seem extreme, but it was an attempt to show allegiance and loyalty. How, or to what extent, are we able to maintain loyalty and or allegiance to our birthplaces? Surely, many of us are found near and far and how do we demonstrate such allegiance or loyalties.
Such a place as Wakanda would be vulnerable to proverbial vultures, but the ‘natives’ were wise, knowing when to back down when to work along with others, when to switch sides and when to fight. In other words, allegiance and loyalty looked different at different times. Most beautiful of all though was the way in which these Wakanda people calming and respectfully, expressed their disagreements and were able to reunite when it mattered.
Wakanda History
Also, noteworthy was the way in which the history was handed down. They had respected rituals, shared stories, and an appreciation of how their customs and norms developed. Of real significance too was their succession planning. For history to remain powerful must there not be an expected future? How do we do as a region in all our contexts, in the workplace, individually and regionally in terms of succession planning? Not the haphazard luck-of-the-draw succession planning, but the noting of and grooming of a successor who understands the history, who gets the value of Wakanda. Well, that was what brought us the Black Panther.
Do hope when the pleasure of this wave leaves, the memories would continue to guide. Behold not only the wonders of Wakanda but more so the wisdom of Wakanda.
By Kerriann Toby
Kerriann Toby is a dynamic therapist and board-certified coach at KarryOn Services with experience and expertise in child and youth development, sexual and reproductive health, gender-related matters, marriage and family life, and positive psychology-using strengths to support mental health and wellbeing. She is currently pursuing her Doctorate of Psychology (PsyD) and is a member of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA). Subscribe to her Youtube Channel: Karry On Psychology https://www.
