None but Ourselves Can Free Our Minds: Towards a Theory of Collective Black Consciousness

Background & Purpose: This paper introduces an emerging transnational theory called Collective Black Consciousness. This multidimensional theory explores the cognitive and existential frameworks enabling Black people worldwide to pursue collective growth, love, and joy while advocating for a liberated reality. Through this lens, the theory provides a deeper understanding of how Black consciousness transcends geographical and cultural boundaries to unite individuals in their common struggles and aspirations, fostering a global movement toward liberation and well-being.

Methods: This study employs a rigorous decolonial, transdisciplinary approach to explore both pre-colonial and contemporary African and Afro-diasporic wisdom. This wisdom, which permeates everyday Black life and cultural and racial justice movements, forms the bedrock of the Collective Black Consciousness theory. The research synthesizes insights from a wide range of African indigenous and diasporic cultures, integrating cultural and sociopolitical synergies that promote collective thriving.

Results: The analysis will highlight the strong connections anticipated between historical and modern racial justice movements around the globe. These connections are expected to manifest across various aspects of Collective Black Consciousness, which will include Black Liberatory Practices, Sociopolitical Transcendence, Radical Black Love, Collective Black Identity, Collective Black Knowledge, and Collective Black Wisdom. Each aspect is expected to contribute uniquely to the broader framework aimed at promoting the flourishing of Black people.

Conclusion & Implications: This manuscript presents a paradigm shift in sociopolitical consciousness, one that is not rooted in the oppression of Black people but in their potential for collective thriving. This reframing redirects the focus from the traditional psychological literature's preoccupation with oppression to a celebration of Black agency and empowerment. This work challenges the prevailing narratives in psychological research by offering an alternative model that champions Black flourishing. It advocates for a broader recognition of psychological theories that not only acknowledge the adversities faced by Black communities but also celebrate their resilience and collective wisdom. The study underscores the importance of integrating these perspectives into mainstream psychological discourse, aligning with a commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, and potentially reshaping the field's future direction.