Rites of Passage

The Rites of Passage component consists of the Sons and the Daughters of The Blue Nile. This component equips participants with the skills, knowledge and tools they will need to navigate the turbulent waters during puberty and adolescence. It provides information to help them understand who they are, where they have come from, where they must go and provide guidance to help them get to their place of destiny. The program provides seeds of wisdom that will allow them to become positive and productive members of society. It gives them tools to unlock doors to success and to see the world through an African-centered, Christian based perspective.

The program is a nine-month interactive program that culminates in with two passing through ceremonies, one for the Daughters and one for the Sons. Those who pass through attend a weekend retreat at a sleep-away camp where the youth participate in team building activities including low and high-ropes, a picnic, debate teams, basketball games and a sacred passing-through ceremony in the woods at night.

In addition to the integration of culturally rooted customs and rituals, there are seven principles of enrichment in which youth are instructed. Each of the seven principles is taught in four week intervals and includes interactive lessons. Field trips to cultural, historical, theatrical, sporting and other venues such as trips to a prison are also extend which enhance the principles taught.

Seven Principles of Living

1. Personal Growth & Development
2. Health & Wellness
3. Spiritual Grounding
4. Community Consciousness
5. Historical Black Experience
6. Economic Awareness
7. Politics