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Superstitions are like cultural whispers passed down through generations, each telling a story about how our ancestors saw and tried to make sense of the world. In Black culture, these superstitions often reflect a blend of African traditions, spiritual beliefs, and the lived experiences of our communities. They offer a glimpse into how our people have navigated life’s mysteries, using these beliefs to protect, guide, and entertain.

Many of these superstitions originated from African folklore and spiritual practices, where the natural and supernatural worlds were deeply intertwined. Over time, these beliefs evolved and merged with other influences, like Christianity and Indigenous traditions, especially during the diaspora. In the Americas and the Caribbean, enslaved Africans carried these beliefs with them, adapting them to new environments and blending them with other cultural practices. This resulted in a rich tapestry of superstitions that continue to shape our customs today.

As our communities have evolved, so too have our superstitions. What started as serious beliefs often rooted in survival and protection have, in many cases, transformed into fun, lighthearted traditions that connect us to our past. While some people hold these superstitions dear, for others, they are simply a way to remember and honor our cultural heritage.

Here’s a look at some of the most iconic superstitions in Black culture—whether you believe in them or not, they offer a fascinating insight into our ancestors' wisdom, creativity, and resilience.

Don’t Sweep Over My Feet!

Sweeping over someone’s feet is said to bring bad luck. The belief goes that if someone sweeps a broom over your feet, you might never get married or have a string of bad luck. Some say the only way to reverse this curse is to immediately spit on the broom.

The Itchy Palm Myth

In many Black households, if your palm starts itching, it’s believed to mean you’re about to come into some money. The superstition often differentiates between hands: an itchy right palm means money is coming in, while an itchy left palm means money is going out.

Step on a Crack, Break Your Mama’s Back

This classic rhyme warns that stepping on a crack in the sidewalk could bring harm to your mother. While it’s mostly recited as a childhood game, some believe it’s rooted in the idea that cracks represent fractures or disruptions in the world, and stepping on them might invite bad luck or negative energy. So, next time you're walking, mind those cracks—just in case!

Cover Mirrors During a Thunderstorm

This belief comes from the idea that mirrors can attract lightning. During a storm, some Black families cover mirrors with cloth to prevent attracting lightning strikes. This superstition is also rooted in a deeper spiritual belief about mirrors being portals to other realms.

Whistling at Night

Whistling after dark is said to summon spirits or invite negative energy into the home. Some people believe that whistling at night might bring bad news or unwanted guests.

Umbrellas Indoors Opening an umbrella indoors is considered bad luck in many cultures, including in Black communities. The reasoning varies, but some say it brings bad weather or even invites discord and bad energy into the household.

The Salt Over the Shoulder Trick

If you spill salt, it’s considered bad luck. To counteract this, you should toss a pinch of salt over your left shoulder. This is believed to blind the devil lurking behind you, preventing any bad luck from befalling you.

Hats on Beds

Placing a hat on a bed is thought to bring bad luck. This superstition is especially prevalent in the South, where some believe that a hat on a bed can invite death or bad luck into the home. Always keep your hats on the hat rack!

The Mysterious Foot Twitch

If your right foot itches or twitches, it could mean you’re about to take a trip. However, if it’s the left foot, it might mean you’re about to embark on a less fortunate journey. Either way, it’s a sign to pay attention to where your feet might take you!

The Black Cat Conundrum

The superstition about black cats crossing your path bringing bad luck is widespread, but in some Black communities, the belief is slightly different. A black cat crossing your path at night might mean a spirit or ghost is nearby, reminding us of the thin veil between the living and the spirit world.

Walking Backwards Through a Doorway

To ensure good luck and ward off evil spirits, some say you should walk backward through your doorway when leaving the house. This practice confuses any spirits that might want to follow you out, keeping bad vibes at bay.

Never Hand Someone a Knife

Handing someone a knife directly is said to cut the ties of friendship. If you need to pass a knife to someone, it’s best to set it down on a surface for them to pick up, ensuring your relationship stays intact.

Dreams of Fish

If you dream about fish, it could mean someone you know is pregnant. This is a common belief in many Black communities and is often taken as a sign of upcoming family news. So, next time you have a fishy dream, start thinking of baby names!