By Jeffery Kazembe Batts
IG: @kazbatts
“People just don’t understand the cultural differences, don’t understand who we are! The system is not set up to help our children build a strong identity so they know who they are, so when they get out there in the world, they are the boss, not the employee. They have a vision that is unlimited, and they can feel very powerful, knowing that there is nothing that can stop them and get in their way.
They can believe in themselves,” Mother Fela passionately expressed. She shared at the December 12th ribbon cutting ceremony that launched the Little Sun People after school and long-awaited kindergarten class. Little Sun People was originally founded for Mother Fela’s daughter, Aaliyah, who is now the Executive Director, with Fela assisting as the Deputy Director.
Founded 44 years ago by Fela Barcliff, the new expansion continues the vision of a holistic, 360-degree, African-centered program for the Black child. The Children in the new kindergarten class are called Nubians, and the children in the after-school program are called the Makondes. Little Sun People is located on the third and fourth floors of 352 Classon Ave, the Child Development Support Corporation building in Bed-Stuy.
Inside the environment of art, books, computers, drums, flags, maps, and photographs are neatly arranged in various rooms that can only stimulate and empower any parent or child who enters the school.
Dozens of children and their parents briefly braved the cold weather to see the ribbon cutting on Classon Ave.
To celebrate, Fela reached back into the school’s history to have one of its earliest students, the highly acclaimed Dr. Uche Blackstock, cut the ribbon outside the building. She then shared how influential her time attending the school was in facilitating a foundation she built on later in life. Once back inside and upstairs, parents and children were allowed to do archery, an ancient African practice from Nubia and Tar-Seti. Activist, artist, and gifted archer Dr. Larry Brown patiently taught how to stand and shoot arrows at a bullseye target.
The incoming students will be taught this aspect of African history alongside the state standards for kindergarten. While celebrating, swag bags were given to attendees under 10 years old, and Watoto the clown entertained, bringing laughter and smiles to the room full of little African princesses and princes. Light refreshments were served as parents networked, children played, and everyone marveled at the layout of the new space.
Mother Fela shared her appreciation for Little Sun People’s past support from powerful Black elected officials over the years. She thanked the late Al Vann and former elected officials Annette Robinson, Charles, and Inez Barron. The founder said, “These are people that have always been in Little Sun People’s corner.”
Forming relationships with the newly elected officials is an ongoing process, she added. As she prepares to retire next year Mama Fela affirmed her purpose and the mindset she wants embedded in the children attending Little Sun People. “Every part of education with an African infusion. Our people did it. Your community does it. This is amazing. You got this!”