As graduation ceremonies fill campuses across the United States every May, one accessory stands out among Black graduates, the Kente cloth stole. Worn with pride, it represents not only academic achievement but also a deep-rooted connection to African heritage, specifically the cultural traditions of Ghana.
The Kente cloth originates from the Akan people of Ghana. Woven by hand, each strip features bold colors and geometric patterns. These are never random designs; every color and pattern communicates specific values. For example, Black represents maturity and ancestral presence, red symbolizes sacrifice and struggle, gold stands for royalty and wealth, green signifies growth and renewal, blue reflects peace and harmony, yellow stands for fruitfulness, while white marks purity and celebration. In its earliest form, Kente was reserved for royalty, often worn by kings, queens, and other nobility during important occasions. Over time, it evolved into a national symbol of cultural pride, still closely associated with dignity, leadership, and excellence.
In recent decades, the Kente stole has gained popularity among African American graduates as a visual representation of heritage and identity. It acknowledges the legacy of their ancestors while celebrating the present-day achievement of educational milestones. Though the stole may differ in size from traditional Kente cloth garments, the meaning it carries remains the same: recognition of Black excellence and cultural pride.
Institutions and students now include Kente in graduation events to honor African heritage in formal and respectful ways. Some stoles are customized with the year, university name, or Greek affiliations, further linking personal journeys to cultural heritage.
Beyond graduation, Kente continues to serve as an important symbol in African and African diaspora communities. Its presence in ceremonies, fashion, and cultural displays reinforces its role as an archive of history, identity, and achievement, reminding Black graduates of where they come from, what they’ve accomplished, and the communities they represent.
