JUMPING DA BROOM!

I have always been intrigued with the tradition of jumping the broom! I said if I ever got married, I would incorporate this tradition in my wedding!

The tradition of jumping of the broom stems back to Africa and the early days of slavery in the United States.

In Africa, the broom was used to symbolize "sweeping away oneness in order for two to become one" It also symbolizes the new bride`s willingness to keep the shante clean while her husband (the warrior) was out defending their land and providing for the family.

During the darkest hour of slavery, the slaves were considered property. As such, the law forbid them to marry. The slave owners did everything that they could to discourage family units from evolving.

Nevertheless, love always prevailed.

To marry (or "sweep away oneness in order to become one"), slaves adopted the African tradition of "jumping the broom" to symbolize their marriage before their friends and God.

To pay homage to my grandparents and their parents Mr Chocolate and I will be jumping the broom!