In this episode of Gracefully Imperfect, Brother KD Toon introduces the concept of liberatory self-knowledge, a program designed to support individuals, particularly within the Black community, in navigating their identities and experiences. He discusses the roots of liberation social work, drawing from Afrocentric scholarship and ancient African wisdom, emphasizing the importance of collective consciousness and traditional healing practices. The conversation highlights the distinction between modern therapy and traditional healing, advocating for a return to community-based support systems.

Power is the ability to influence the enviornment consistent with one’s self-interests. It is true that power in this respect carries the implications of domination, but definitely not the domination of other people. This definion of power has implications for the domination or mastery of our needs. Power is intended to put people into the unique position that they can obtain and achieve within the context of their environment those things that maximize their survival and the continuation of themselves to the best of their ability.” Na’iam Akbar, Know Thy Self, p.35

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In this episode of Gracefully Imperfect, Brotha KD Toon explores the themes of transformation, vulnerability, and the importance of self-knowledge through the lens of fatherhood and ancestral wisdom. He discusses the philosophy behind Gracefully Imperfect, the lessons learned from his children, and the significance of mental liberation in understanding one’s identity and history.

“Mental liberation requires that we locate ourselves on the time line and map of human history, that we name and define ourselves, and that we rectify the problem of loss of knowledge of self wherein we are overwhelmed by other people’s knowledge.” - Na’im Akbar, Know Thy Self, p.ii

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A poetic expression on the importance of remembering the process and purpose for liberation, through the use of ancestral memory and cultural knowledge.

I am because we are,

Brotha KD, MSW

brothakd@liberationsocialwork.com

liberationsocialwork.com