Jumping the Broom
Jumping the broom is an African-American tradition whereby the newly married couple--having just been pronounced husband and wife--jump together over a broom. You may recall seeing it in the mini-series Roots.
The origination and symbolism of this tradition is uncertain. The most prevalent theory seems to be that jumping originated in the south during the time of slavery. Because slaves were not allowed to marry legally, they put together a commitment ritual of their own, which involved jumping over the broom. The broom was used by slave families to sweep the courtyard. Utilizing the broom in the context of the wedding ceremony symbolized the new wife's willingness to become a member of the groom's family. Modern wedding ceremonies that include jumping the broom offer a way for couples to incorporate a tradition from their cultural roots. Jumping the broom still symbolizes the bride's (and in current times--the groom's) transition into a new family.
From Wikipedia: Jumping over the broom symbolized various things depending on the culture. Among southern Africans, it represented the wife's commitment or willingness to clean the courtyard of the new home she had joined. But in the American south, the custom determined who ran the household. Whoever jumped highest over the broom was the decision maker of the household (usually the man). Sometimes African American couples recognize "jumping the broom" as being synonymous with getting married in the same way that "tying the knot" is associated with getting married. Brooms can be beautifully decorated and may be used as wall décor after the wedding ceremony.
In incorporating the Jumping the Broom tradition into the ceremony, it can be done with or without the following words.
Wording for Jumping the Broom Ceremony (can be done by officiant or by a friend/family member)
After the couple is pronounced husband and wife, (but before the kiss) the officiant will hold up the broom and state:
Officiant: To all of Bride and Groom's honored guests who have come here to witness this couple's vows of love and commitment and celebrate the start of their married life together. We are here today not only to celebrate with Bride and Groom, but to extend our love and support to them as they begin their married life together. We wish many good things for them: joy, laughter, shared dreams, and a long and happy life (you may want to substitute your own personal wishes here--e.g. "the blessings of children", "a continued passion for exploring the outdoors together" or something else that might be particular to the couple).
Bride and Groom will now participate in the age-old African-American tradition of "jumping the broom" symbolizing their joyous transition into married life. They realize that they are stronger together than they are alone and have chosen to take the leap into married life with joy, dedication and a firm commitment that theirs will be a marriage rooted in love.
Bride and Groom will make this broom a part of their home, where they will hang it as a symbol of this joyous day and the love that binds them together and holds them close. It will also remind them of the love and support extended to them by their family and friends who have joined them today. (Optional line: Hopefully, it will also be an ever present reminder to them they should continually strive to sweep the other person off his or her feet at regular intervals!)
Note: if the broom has been adorned with any symbolic decorations, the officiant will want to mention those here and the meaning of each.
Officiant will lay broom on the ground between the couple and their guests. The couple will turn to face their guest and join hands.
Officiant (to guests): Please join me in counting to three to show your encouragement to Bride and Groom as they leap over the broom.
Everyone: "One, Two, THREE!"
Bride and Groom will jump over the broom together and then kiss while everyone applauds.