All Santeros Aren’t Created Equal

As the pilgrimage back to African Traditional Religions continues to gain momentum, many people believe that because folks are initiated into certain traditions; they have integrity. Allow me to be the first to tell you that it’s not the case.

As a diasporan woman, I come from a family of santeros. I was extremely proud to start this journey. Albeit was 20 years in the making, I am indescribably fulfilled to be an olosha/ santera in the Lucumi tradition. It’s an insurmountable joy that many will never have the pleasure of knowing.

However, this faith does not come without its challenges.

Upon moving to Florida, I had to find a religious home. I did but it was different than the houses and people I had been exposed to while living up north. It was predominantly white latinos which honestly made me feel a little uneasy. It’s not to say that all white santeros are trash, but I feel more comfortable with my own folks. It is what it is. And my former godbrother, Michael Hendley or Osun Muyiwa reassured me that this house was cool. In 2016, I became an official member of the house after receiving my elekes, warriors and Olokun.

I crowned on Aug. 29, 2018. My Iya in ocha is Yemaya and my Baba is Babaluaye. I spent my iyaworaje isolated from people with the exception of traveling for work, grocery shopping and…