With September upon us, it’s a time to celebrate the changing seasons and family traditions. As children return to school and families prepare for the holidays, reunions provide a space to re-connect with one another, strengthen emotional bonds and pass down family history. This article explores the many benefits of family reunion and how to make it a lasting, lifelong tradition.

Experts agree that the earlier in the year you start planning, the more successful your reunion will be. They recommend starting as early as two years in advance to ensure that everything runs smoothly. It’s also important to include younger generations in the planning process as they will be the ones to carry the tradition in the future.

The idea of reunifying families is deeply rooted in African American culture. During slavery, families were often broken apart as slave owners sold children and siblings. As a result, after the Civil War and ratification of the Thirteenth Amendment, enslaved individuals made efforts to locate family members they had been separated from. This was often accomplished through newspaper advertisements, letters and word of mouth.

Similarly, reunions can be an important opportunity for immigrants to strengthen their attachment to one another. In addition to creating family ties, these events can also be opportunities for education and cultural exchange. For example, by connecting immigrant communities with mental health professionals, these programs can help individuals overcome barriers that may impede their ability to reunify with family members.