The Philosophy of A.M.A.U.R.

This philosophy is a declaration of identity, purpose, and vision. It is a call to action and a roadmap for reclaiming sovereignty, justice, and unity for Aboriginal Moorish Americans and all indigenous people of the Americas. This is the declaration of a Moor, Morrison Sid Washington, Ja Maur-El, El Sid.

AMAUR: A Name Rooted in Love and Identity

AMAUR is an acronym for Aboriginal Moorish Americans for Ubuntu and Reparations. Its meaning is layered, drawing from historical, cultural, and linguistic roots. In Latin, Amaur translates to "Love," a sentiment that resonates deeply with its mission. Moreover, it signifies a person—a Moor—embodying a rich heritage and an enduring connection to ancestral wisdom.

Central to AMAUR's philosophy is the Sankofa symbol of Ghana's Twi language. This emblem, which means "go back and fetch it," underscores the necessity of looking to the past to inform and reclaim the future. For AMAUR, Sankofa is a reminder to cease asking for justice and instead demand nationality, for nationality is the key to freedom.

Understanding Our Identity and Rights

The acronym AMAUR represents not just a people but a movement uniting those labeled as Black, African-American, American Indian, Mexican, Moorish-American, Olmec, Khalif, Samoan, Hawaiian, and other indigenous peoples of the Americas. These are the descendants of the land's original stewards—those present long before the arrival of English or European settlers.

In examining the laws of the land, AMAUR emphasizes a critical understanding: all treaties are supreme. Treaties, such as the Treaty of Peace and Friendship, are agreements between sovereign nations that predate and supersede colonial constitutions and laws. These treaties established terms allowing newcomers to coexist while preserving the sovereignty and inherent rights of the indigenous people. The lands were not ceded but shared under specific conditions that have often been ignored or distorted.

Ubuntu: A Philosophy of Shared Humanity

At the heart of AMAUR is the African principle of Ubuntu, popularized by Archbishop Desmond Tutu. Ubuntu is a philosophy of interconnectedness, a belief that "a person is a person through other persons." Tutu explains: "When I dehumanize you, I inexorably dehumanize myself." Ubuntu teaches that reconciliation, peace, and justice are possible through acknowledgment, remorse, and truth.

In the context of indigenous sovereignty, Ubuntu calls for a global embrace of communal humanism, reminding the world that justice for one is justice for all. Ubuntu challenges governments and societies to recognize the shared humanity of all people, fostering reconciliation through truth and reparations.

Reparations: Restoring Justice and Dignity

Reparations are more than a financial redress—they are an acknowledgment of historical injustice and the steps needed to restore dignity and equity. For AMAUR, reparations address the systemic disenfranchisement of indigenous and Moorish peoples, recognizing the exploitation of their labor, land, and heritage.

Reparations serve as a moral compass, guiding nations to redeem their integrity by addressing past wrongs. This commitment to justice sets an example of ethical governance, fostering healing and unity.

A Call for Transformative Education

AMAUR also advocates for a revival of traditional education, which fosters intellectual growth, creativity, and critical thinking. As Molefi Kete Asante asserts, traditional African teaching was not about rote imitation but about cultivating wisdom and innovation. This holistic approach contrasts with modern pedagogies, emphasizing the need to reconnect with ancestral methods that inspire self-awareness and empowerment.

The Path Forward

This philosophy is a vision for a united, sovereign people grounded in love, shared humanity, and the pursuit of justice. Through AMAUR, we aim to:

• Reclaim Sovereignty: Demand recognition of treaties and the sovereignty of indigenous nations.
• Foster Ubuntu: Embrace communal humanism to heal divisions and promote global justice.
• Secure Reparations: Advocate for acknowledgment, accountability, and restitution for historical injustices.
• Revive Education: Reignite traditional teaching methods that empower and enlighten.

This is the philosophy of a Moor. It is a declaration of resilience, a commitment to truth, and a call to action. Together, we must "go back and fetch it," reclaiming our heritage and forging a future of sovereignty, justice, and unity.