Welcome to DCOGRIOT, the new series by Designing in Color. DCOGRIOT is all about stories and storytelling. We want to share the stories of black and brown voices in design, to hear their insights and share their wisdom with the world. What better way to begin than by today’s topic: the Griot.
History is alive. It lives on in the memories of those who remember it, informing their actions, thoughts, and personalities. In West Africa, the Griot is history personified. Serving as the storyteller, historian, and advisor to a community, the Griot is a person of great importance. Each community’s Griot commands respect, often as a key member of the royal entourage. As the Griot speaks to kings and queens, a Griot-in-training listens intently. That history is too precious to be lost when the Griot dies. And one day, the young Griot-in-training will have the awesome responsibility of being the reservoir of an entire nation’s history. The Griot was so venerated that their abduction or harm by another group was a declaration of war. You weren’t just attacking an important person; you were attacking a people’s entire history.
Today, the role of the Griot is still performed and respected. Some families have their own personal griots to carry on the traditions. Others retain political prominence as advisors to chiefs. Others still have found great success in music, singing histories and recounting tales through song. One Africa’s most prominent singers, Youssou N’Dour, comes from a long line of griots, using his training to create narratively-rich songs. Modern poets and musicians inspired by the history of the Griot are everywhere. If the Griot is history come alive, its influence has made the profession immortal.
DCOGRIOT will be back soon. We’ll be covering topics of social justice, sacred space, and design equity. Stay tuned for more. In the meantime, stay safe, stay healthy, and stay in.
