Author: Olori Tana
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Debunking Myths: Translation, “Esu is Not Satan,” and Language Supremacy
Last week, I attended the Nigerian Institute of Translators and Interpreters (NITI) Workshop by association, as I was visiting with my academic mentor, whom I affectionately refer to as “my professor.” As one of the workshop presenters spoke about mistranslation and untranslatable words in Yoruba, we chuckled over the examples the speaker cited. For example,…
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Unlocking Yoruba Feminine Power: A Journey of Rediscovery
In April 2019, a discussion on women’s solidarity sparked a deeper inquiry into womanhood and power. I advocate reclaiming female strength and spirituality, asserting that Western feminism does not align with African women’s realities. Through cultural exploration, I emphasize the importance of recognizing inherent feminine powers and challenges oppressive narratives surrounding menstruation and womanhood.
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Àwọn Ìyà Mi: Understanding Feminine Empowerment through Yoruba Spirituality
Who is Woman? My memory reached back to childhood, to when older men would refer to women as Ìyá Wa. The trail from Ìyá Wa landed me at the concept of Àjẹ́. They are not mere witches. They are more. They are power. And now, I am beginning to think that maybe indeed gbogbo obìnrin…
The Global Tana 