Samantha Jo
Oct 12, 20233 min
Healing in the Balm Yard with Samantha Jo: Celebrating Hoodoo Heritage Month
Welcome, beloved listeners, to another episode of Healing In the Balm Yard with Samantha Jo. This October, we're paying homage to an integral part of the black American culture —Hoodoo. In this episode, we will journey through the intricate webs of Hoodoo, its rich heritage, misconceptions, and contemporary celebrations. Are you ready? Let's go!
HooDoo Heritage Month
October is all about honoring the rich traditions of Hoodoo. As we venture through this month, we'll be reconnecting with our ancestors, understanding the customs, and deepening our spiritual journey. But first, let's address the BIG question—where does the term 'Hoodoo' originate from? It's vital to understand that Hoodoo isn't the same as Voodou. They're distinct, though they share African roots. Through my studies and experiences, I've come to realize how deeply intertwined Hoodoo is with practices like conjure and rootwork. And trust me, there's so much more to uncover!
Shedding Light on Taboos & Misconceptions
Okay, let's talk about the elephant in the room. Over the years, Hoodoo has been shrouded in taboos, mostly arising from misunderstandings. How many times have we seen Hoodoo misrepresented in movies? It's essential for us to break away from these misconceptions. One crucial aspect I've discovered is how Hoodoo blends with Christianity. If you've ever been to Congo Square in New Orleans, you'll witness the strength of our African traditions firsthand. This place embodies the resilience and richness of Hoodoo practices.
HooDoo’s Influence Across Communities
Hoodoo isn't just limited to our Black community; it's made significant impacts in the Hispanic and Latino communities as well. Each year, the Hoodoo Beaucoup Fest in New Orleans becomes a vibrant celebration, uniting everyone with music, arts, and rituals. And if you're in Chicago or planning to visit, the city offers its unique blend of urban life with Hoodoo traditions. It's incredible to witness! ALSO! Mark your calendars for this event coming up on Saturday, October 21, 2023.
Spotlight: The Enchanting Rue Herb
Now, for my favorite segment: let's discuss the powerful Rue Herb this week. Throughout my practice, I've deeply respected Rue for its spiritual and protective qualities. Whether you're familiar with Santeria, Ifa, Hoodoo, or just starting out in practice, Rue offers a wealth of benefits. From its traditional applications in talismans to its modern-day significance in incense, it's truly a symbol of our spiritual resilience. But remember, as with all potent herbs, handle Rue with care and reverence.
Invitation to Dive Deeper
Before we wrap up, here's a special invitation for all of you: join me this month at the L1 Store for a plethora of magical events honoring HooDoo. Let's come together for workshops, rituals, and, most importantly, community bonding. Dive into the calendar, and let's celebrate this beautiful heritage. Stay connected, engage, and let's keep the flame of Hoodoo burning bright. Until next time, keep nurturing your soul and honoring our shared history. Much love and magic to all! 🌿✨🔮
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RESOURCES FROM THE EPISODE + MORE
CHECK OUT THE FOLLOWING PODCAST EPISODES I LOVED FROM JUJU BAE'S PODCAST - EACH ONE SPOKE ABOUT THE POWERS OF THE HOODOO CULTURE + KEEPING THE TRADITIONS AFRICAN PEOPLE CREATED SACRED
EP. 03 INTERVIEW WITH MYESHA: HOODOO IS RESISTANCE, HOODOO IS BLACK