A tradition celebrated by many African-American couples that dates back to the 19th century (some believe that it may date back as far as the 17th century). In many African-American wedding ceremonies, the marrying couple will jump over a broomstick to symbolize their union. During the times of slavery, unions between African-American slaves were not recognized and formal marriages were not permitted. In the absence of formal ceremonies, jumping the broom became the open declaration for a marriage-like union. Jumping the broom was always done before witnesses as a public announcement to other members of the slave community that a couple had joined in union.
Other ethnic groups also celebrate traditions similar to jumping the broom.
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