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By Ron Calhoun
What makes Dec. 24 a cornerstone of empowerment for Foundational Black Americans (FBA)? It is the celebration of Arutisuse, a holiday dedicated to the enduring legacy of resistance, resilience, and cultural triumph of FBA. On this day, FBA honor their ancestors’ brave acts of liberation during one of the most oppressive periods in history. The holiday not only celebrates the past but inspires the future through empowerment and education.
The Origins of Foundational Black Americans
The history of Foundational Black Americans predates the arrival of enslaved Africans in Virginia in 1619. It begins almost 100 years earlier, in 1526, with the arrival of enslaved Black people brought by Spanish colonizer Lucas Vázquez de Ayllón to the South Carolina/Georgia coast. Shortly after their arrival, these captives staged a successful revolt, forcing the remaining Spanish enslavers to retreat to the Caribbean. The liberated Black people then integrated into the local Native American societies, marking the beginning of a unique cultural and historical legacy.
Since 1526, the culture of Foundational Black Americans has been defined by resilience, resistance, perseverance, and an unyielding fight for justice. This exceptional lineage is celebrated and honored for its pivotal role in shaping the United States.
Arutisuse: A Holiday of Empowerment
Arutisuse (“Arise” in the traditional Foundational Black American TUT language) is a holiday that commemorates FBA’s culture of freedom fighting and resistance. Celebrated annually on Dec. 24, Arutisuse honors the tradition of enslaved Black Americans using the Christmas season to escape bondage. This day encourages FBA to gift books that uplift consciousness, paying homage to ancestors who risked their lives to read and teach others to read.
Historical Context of the Holiday
During the antebellum slavery period in America, many enslaved FBA freedom fighters cleverly used the Christmas season to plan and execute escapes. Slave owners were often preoccupied with holiday festivities, and enslaved individuals were granted more freedom to visit family and friends on neighboring plantations. These relaxed policies created opportunities for many to rise to freedom.
Another celebration linked to this time is the Junkanoo parades. Enslaved individuals participated in these festive events by playing instruments and wearing costumes that often mocked slave owners. Some believe these celebrations served as distractions, enabling others to escape to freedom.
How to Celebrate Arutisuse
On Dec. 24, Foundational Black Americans are encouraged to:
- Gift Books: Share books that inspire and elevate consciousness, paying homage to ancestors who risked their lives to learn and teach literacy.
- Reflect on Resilience: Engage in discussions or activities that honor FBA’s legacy of resistance and perseverance.
- Celebrate Freedom: Host or participate in events that reflect the spirit of freedom and empowerment.
The FBA Nation Maroon Flag 
The FBA Nation Maroon Flag symbolizes the legacy of freedom, resistance, and resilience. Its elements include:
- Three Stars: Representing the three groups that form the FBA lineage: Black aboriginal people of North America, Black explorers and traders who interacted with the Americas pre-Columbus, and African captives brought to the Western Hemisphere.
- The Fist: Signifying the ongoing struggle against white supremacy, dating back to 1526.
- Olive Branches: Reflecting historic unity and peace between Black aboriginals and African captives.
- The White Background: Representing the perpetual threat of white supremacy, with FBA resistance overlaying it.
- The Red, White, and Blue Color Scheme: Honoring Grace Wisher, a Black teenager who contributed to crafting the current U.S. flag.
- Nine Red Stripes: Representing nine major slave rebellions that shaped U.S. policies, with one stripe hidden behind the Black power fist to symbolize the often-overlooked Black Seminole Maroon Wars.
- Axes and Torch: Depicting the tools used by maroons to secure their freedom.
Recognizing FBA Heritage
FBA heritage is rich with stories of resilience and achievements that span centuries. Tools like the 1870 and 1900 U.S. Census records assist individuals in verifying their lineage. This historical documentation is also crucial in advancing reparations claims for FBA descendants. 
Arutisuse is more than a holiday; it is a cultural affirmation of Foundational Black Americans’ exceptional legacy. By celebrating Dec. 24 with acts of empowerment, reflection, and education, FBA continues to honor the sacrifices and triumphs of their ancestors. This holiday ensures their stories remain a vital part of America’s history and collective consciousness.
