Like most professional conventions, the ABPsi annual convention provides a forum for the exchange of research and ideas. One of the distinguishing features of ABPsi is its use of rituals and symbolism. The ABPsi' s distinct African-centered orientation is infused throughout the convention. Below is a brief guide or primer on terms, symbols, and rituals used throughout the convention.

Hotep: The word Hotep is derivative of the name IMHOTEP, an ancient Egyptian priest considered to be the first physician and engineer. It literally means "He who comes in peace". Part of his name (Hotep) is used casually as an Afrocentric greeting.

Pouring of Libations: In traditional African cultures pouring libations is a ritual usually involving the pouring of water. It is a spiritual act between the living and the "dead", such as ancestors, deities, etc. When we pour libations it becomes easier for us to be connected to our ancestors. The pouring of libations involves the recitation of a prayer and usually precedes important events in African culture.

Ashe (pronounced ah-SHAY): The word Ashe is from the Yoruba language meaning "and so it is". It is comparable to the word Amen, and is spoken during the pouring of libations.

Tribute to the Ancestors: The tribute to ancestors is a ritual which pays homage to those individuals in our community who are now deceased. Paying homage to our ancestors is an important act in African cultures. Individuals are asked to wear white attire at the tribute, which usually occurs in the early morning. A libation ceremony and drum invocation takes place during the tribute. In many African communities the color white may signify the spirit world of the ancestors, and usually reflects sacredness of space, purity, and spirituality.

Mbongi: Mbongi is a word in the Kikongo language which means "learning place". When people come together to resolve a community problem, the problem-solving meeting is referred to as an Mbongi. The Mbongi assemblies are designed to "plead our case", and to critique and clarify important social issues which concern us dearly.

Enstoolment Ceremony: The enstoolment ceremony is a sacred ceremony involving the installation of the new ABPsi president and Student Circle president. The ceremony is derived from African enstoolment ceremonies where the installation of new African chiefs takes place. The ABPsi enstoolment ceremony takes place every 2 years for the ABPsi president and every year for the Student Circle Chairperson.

Importance of Elders: An elder is a person, senior in years, who is respected in the community for their character and spirit, demonstrated through their behavior and good judgment. Elders are highly respected among African descended people, and are used to maintain balance and peace. The ABPsi has a Council of Elders who provide counsel and guidance on important matters related to the ABPsi.

Jegna: Jegna is an Ethiopian word that means "a very brave person who is a protector of culture". A jegna is someone who is not afraid to speak truth to power, is full of integrity, and is committed to the welfare and protection of our people. In ABPsi, the word jegna is preferred over mentor because of the negative historical meaning associated with mentor.

African Dress: Traditional African attire is a way to express and honor our connections to our African heritages, and honor the cultural traditions. While African dress is not a requirement at ABPsi events or National Convention, it is encouraged.

Village Meeting: The ABPsi Village Meeting is an opportunity for the membership to come together to share ideas and opinions about the purpose and future direction of the Association. This is a wonderful opportunity for students to give voice to their issues and concerns and have them brought to the attention of the ABPsi National Board and Elders.

General Assembly: The general assembly is composed of ABPsi members who work on behalf of the Association of Black Psychologists to implement programming that conforms to the goals and mission of ABPsi. Work groups dedicated to specific policy or programming areas function as committees (e.g., membership, public policy, committee on international relations etc). All are welcomed to attend general assembly meetings and become involved.

Suggested References

Belgrave, F. Z., & Allison, K. W. (2010). African American Psychology: From Africa to America. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications

Neville, H. A., Tynes, B. M., & Utsey, S. O. (2009). Handbook of African American Psychology. Thousand Oaks, CA: SAGE Publications.

Nobles, W. W. (2006). Seeking the Sakhu: Foundational writings for an African psychology. Chicago, IL: Third World Press.

Parham, T. A., Ajamu, A., & White, J. L. (2010) The psychology of Blacks: Centering our consciousness in the African Consciousness. 4th Ed. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall.