What does it mean to decolonize and what does decolonization look like?

Decolonization means many things to different people at Nuwu Art and around the world. The members of the Nuwu Art Collective meet regularly as a group to share with each other, check-in and check-on one another and our families, while following the cultural practices of those who came before us. We create a safe space for our children to gather, play, and be protected. We invite in our partners, friends, and allies to learn as we enjoy art and engage in cultural exchange. We are also committed to bringing in and calling in others within our wider communities for healing and identity circles. Overall, our work is devoted to addressing personal, interpersonal, and community-based issues, especially those that are connected to colonial traumas dating back to 1492—many of which have continued within our communities over 500 years up through today.

We look to the past—to our ancestors and elders—as we build each other up in the present and strengthen the community through the arts, education, and cultural revitalization. At our social gatherings, we enjoy live art, music, food, conversation, and just being present with one another. Our goal is to nurture relationships and foster community, as we help build a society that will bring the next generation(s) forward into a better future.