Long before Islam and Christianity touched west Africa there was a culture that was balanced in Etiquette and Spirituality. In the lands that hold the countries Nigeria, Togo, and Benin (where most African slaves that were brought to America originate) the customs of the people are considered to be one of the oldest customs on the earth, predating the start of Abrahamic societies by a few thousand years. These people were known earlier as Omo Karo-gee-re or Omo Oduduwa, and later by the name given to them by their enemies the Fulani, Yoruba (a slander that means cunning and deceitful. This was used to demean them, and was used by the European to define them). 

The name Karo-gee-re was given because they were always known to be greeters. They greeted and prostrated themselves to each other so much that they became the “Karo” due to the greeting E Karo, E kasan which translates to good morning and good evening. Omo Oduduwa was a name given due to their first king having such great character they say that they are all children of him, Physically and spiritually. Good character and community was so ingrained into their society, that when we see how the descendants of this great culture act now, It has tons to say about the mental programming that was involved in constructing the modern black American through slavery. Tribe of Us Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating positive change and transforming the culture within the black community.

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Oridola Oyelowo (Christopher T.A. Bates)
CEO, Founder