Broom Jumping. A custom that originates in various European heritages it is now a widespread tradition in. It reclaims a tradition of how slaves were married in America.
Slaves were not allowed to enter into legal marriage so they jumped the broom to publicly signify their commitment. After vows are exchanged the newlyweds hold hands and jump over a broom to seal the union. Jumping the broom was not a custom of slavery but is a part of African culture that survived American slavery like the Voodoo religion of the Fon and Ewe ethnic groups or the ring shout ceremony of the BaKongo and Mbundu ethnic groups.
For many couples this ritual is about heritage and respect to ancestors in Wales Scotland England Africa and America.
Slaves were not allowed to enter into legal marriage so they jumped the broom to publicly signify their commitment. Today its most widespread among black communities in the United States. It also signifies the freedom of a couple to choose who they love and commit to. Two very different families converge on Marthas Vineyard one weekend for a wedding.