Jumping the broom

In contrast to many West African traditions recognized and included in African American wedding ceremonies, the practice of jumping the broom is a wholly American addition that developed out of the institution of African slavery in the United States.

Shortly after the introduction of slavery to the country, the right to legal marriage was taken away from the enslaved. Slaveholders considered the Africans property, and as property, they had no rights in the eyes of the law. The owners also feared that legal marriage and family bonds had the potential to lead to organization and revolt. Marriage rituals were important events to the Africans who came from numerous richly ceremonial cultures. When faced with the loss of the right to marry, many, ingrained with the significance of the marriage since childhood, created new rituals with what was on hand.

Taking vows in the presence of a witness and then leaping over the handle of a broom became the common practice to create a recognized union. Incorporating jumping the broom into modern weddings is just one way African Americans today celebrate their cultural heritage.

According to the African Wedding Guide (http://www.africanweddingguide.com/history/jumping), the broom is decorated with ribbons. It is placed on the floor of the reception hall after the wedding. The couple enters and jointly sweeps with the broom as the host describes the tradition and symbolism. At the end of the talk, the broom is placed on the floor and the crowd counts down "1-2-3-Jump!" and the couple jumps over the broom.

Neo-pagans have borrowed this simple practice from the African American community, and have incorporated it into their handfastings. In the ceremony, the broom represents a threshold. The handfasted couple, although still individuals, begin a new life together. Jumping over the broom represents crossing this threshold into new territory, a life vitally connected to another's.

The leap that the couple takes over the broom is also symbolic. Starting a new life with another person does require a "leap of faith". But by taking the leap, the individuals make a gesture of dedication to working together through the tough times ahead. Brooms are also symbols of the hearth, the center of the new family being created. The broom also holds other significance specific to Neo-pagan and Wiccan beliefs (see broomstick).