Black History Month
- integritytalks
- Feb 14, 2021
- 13 min read
Updated: Feb 15, 2021
As we are moving into November, I wanted to share some of the things I've learned about Black History, during Black History Month (which is celebrated October of every year). When I was at school Black history was not part of the curriculum and so things I've learnt during this time, admittedly, is new information for me. As we grow older, it becomes our personal responsibility to learn and keep engaged with what is going on around us. We can no longer hold the educational system accountable. (However I do think changes need to be made within the curriculum to support the learning of Black History). With the power of technology, we have it alot easier to source information and gain knowledge. It is important to always challenge yourself and gain a new perspective.
Black History is only highlighted within a month of celebration. It seems ludicrous to me that ONE month; learning, teaching, thinking and celebrating Black History is deemed adequate enough. As recent events have propelled BLM protests (Black Lives Matter) It is important now, more than ever, in the current world we live in; to continue teachings and celebration of important figures and events within Black History. Every single month of the year, Not.Just.October.
That being said, in honor of this month, I am sharing this post. This is what I have learnt during this time and am still learning.
1. The Basics of Black History: What is Black History Month ?
Black History Month is a month dedicated to the celebration and events of people with African and Caribbean backgrounds, This month was originally founded to recognize the contributions made within history and to countries and generations around the world. This month, over the years, has expanded celebrations to all black people. Black culture, Music,fashion,art and business's created by black people are just as much a celebration as the remembrance of figures within black history.
In the UK, Ireland and The Netherlands, Black History Month is celebrated in October. (First launched in London in 1980s)
There has been and still is a lack of representation and recognized knowledge of black people who existed within important parts of history, that helped shaped the UK. Some schools have now started teaching about the slave trade and about black figures within history that influenced the nation and shaped the future. (It is still not mandatory for the UK curriculum) hope springs eternal.
In the US and Canada, it is celebrated in February. (created in 1926 by Carter G. Woodson)
Carter G. Woodson - along with the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History announced the second week of February to be "Negro History Week". Dates of which has been celebrated within black communities since the 19th century and now reaching other demographics on a larger scale. The aim originally being to have representation of black people, for black history to be taught in schools.
2. Why is Black History celebrated ?
Celebrations all over the world may look different, however, we celebrate Black History to; recognize and acknowledge the existence of black people within important events, understand what actually happened within history 'forgotten', gain an understanding and knowledge from a different point of view, and to thank those who created life changing impact and helped shape the future we live in today.
3. How is Black History celebrated ?
There are MANY ways to partake in celebrations, of course the month might be different, depending on where you are based. We can all agree that however you celebrate, it is much needed and important to encourage other generations to get involved. This goes far beyond just a party, this is a way to educate yourself (at any age- might I add). It is never to late to change your views or find new perspectives of topics that will always remain important.
Reading - (Books, online content, novels, magazines) There are great sources out today to continue individual education.
TV - (Docuseries, Biopics, Movies, Talkshows, Interviews) Visual learners will be able to find a tonne of shows based on true stories and real people, Netflix is particularly good for representing topics otherwise hidden within the education system.
Music - Music really has a healing power within, alot of lyrics really speak to the truth from a black point of view. It can be transformative and becomes a celebration within itself, many cultural references are used within all genres of music.
Festivals - Celebrations globally invite people to share and enjoy; Music of black artists, carnivals celebrate the fashion, outdoor markets to support black businesses, independent small businesses, Food festivals showcase traditional dishes, Poetry events held to promote and share creative work, art exhibitions and performance displays of dance groups. Festivals are all round a huge celebration that welcomes pride of culture and talent. Events this year have been interrupted due to the global pandemic, however there are ways to get involved and support BLM movements and Black History with organizations via social media and online platforms.
Black Heroes Foundation
Virtual Locomotion - Online events hosted via their online community. Lockdown zooms for singing, dancing, quizzes and interviews. They also have Facebook for global access. (Based in London, UK)
Ogo Tawa
Provides and shares music and cotemporary art created by those of African descent, they help to shine a light on the underrepresented and unemployed artists. Check them out online! (Based Canada & Africa)
"We help consumers contribute to advancing the UN sustainable development goals in ways that help individuals of African heritage to reach their full potential."
ASALH
The association for the study of African American Life and History. This is the organization founded by Dr. Carter. G Woodson (1915) The legacy is continued and now has Worldwide platforms all working for and helping the community.
They are holding a virtual festival event, various dates and times on the link below. Also have a YouTube channel for more info. (Based in America)
Gal-Dem
An online publication for Black and P.O.C women. Creative publications of editorials cover the work of art, music, lifestyles, stories and politics within the community. Gal-dem is creating more space for Women of colour within the industry of journalism. (Based in UK, online globally)
Black British Bloggers
A community that focuses on bloggers within the black community in the united kingdom. Celebrates and creates opportunities for content creators and writers. (Based in UK)
Creative Curls Art
Artist of 7 years, Erina has been creating scenes that showcase traditions and culture from her heritage and within ethnic minority groups. She aims to bring awareness to those communities and culture within her paintings, she also teaches workshops! (Based in UK)
4.Who shaped Black history ?
A lot of people may already know the likes of Malcom X and Martin Luther King, Who of course paved ways for the Black community. However there are many more individuals who shaped black history. Here are a few I have been learning about:
Shirley Chisholm -
Shirley was the first black female to be elected for congress in the united states,(1968) she represented the 12th district in New York for seven terms. In 1972 she was the first African-American Woman to run for the presidential election within the democratic party. Throughout her terms she fought for Women and Black women positions within politics (hiring only women for her team), workers rights to minimum wage, women's movements and equal rights. Her lifetime of achievements paved the way for Women and Black women of the future, now in 2020/21 America welcomes Kamala Harris as the first black woman elected vice president.
"If they dont give you a seat at the table, Bring a folding chair." (watch Mrs. America via BBC/ BBC America For more insight into her work and life during the early 70s.)
Claudette Colvin -
Claudette Colvin was actually the first Black female to refuse to give up her seat on the bus. 9 months before Rosa Parks then followed and got arrested. In 1955 Claudette refused to move seats to the back of the bus (at this time Black people were only allowed to sit at the back of busses and White people at the front).
She was 15 and pregnant, and was arrested, being the first to challenge segregation rules within the city. Rosa Parks also refused to move seats, which led to her arrest. This sparked a protest called the Montgomery bus boycott within the NAACP (The national association for the advancement of coloured people). On 1956 November 13th a order from the supreme court called Montgomery an Alabama to end bus segregation.
Claudette is some what of a unsung hero, her story is far less publicized in comparison to that of Rosa Parks. However Claudette is and should be as celebrated for her fight for justice and civil rights and fight against racial discrimination.
" I knew then and I know now, that when it comes to justice, there is no easy way to get it."Jesse Owens -
Recognized in his lifetime as one of the greatest and most famous track athletes within track and field history. Jesse won four gold medals during this Olympics for 100 meter long jump, 100 and 200 meters and 100 relay. He was also the first male African-American athlete to receive sponsorship by Adidas and wore a pair of shoes made for the Olympics. In the late 70s he was awarded the medal of freedom by president Gerald Ford and was also recognized and attributed the living legend awards, titles such as the country's top track and field athlete aswell as stamps. Jesse Owens holds a legacy today within sport and is an inspiration for young black aspiring athletes, in his honor the dorm in which he stayed in during the Olympics in Berlin is now a restored museum, showcasing pictures of his achievements within the games and memorabilia to view.
" The only victory that counts, is the one over yourself."Robert Sengstacke Abbott -
The founder of the Chicago Defender weekly newspaper (1905). Robert published and edited a pamphlet covering news and stories for the Chicago area, which then became one of the highest circulating newspapers owned by a Black man. Robert paved the way for opportunities for African-Americans within news and journalism, inspiring others to migrate from the south for better employment and economic opportunities. Magazines and publications that exist today such as; Ebony mag, Essence, Black Enterprise and many online blogs would not exist without the creative work of Robert Sengstacke Abbott. His practice as a lawyer allowed for him to push for social justice within the Chicago defender, becoming one of the first self made millionaires of African-American decent. The slogan of the paper was "American race prejudice must be destroyed" this being the main aim of his work. In 2017 Robert was awarded a place in the literary hall of fame Chicago, and both his childhood home and family home are national historic landmarks. In present day the Chicago defender does not print but operates as an online publication.
"No greater glory, no greater honor, is the lot of man departing than a feeling possessed deep in his heart that the world is a better place for his having lived." Gwendolyn Brooks -
An American poet, who was the first Black author to win the Pulitzer Prize as well as being the first black woman to hold the role of poetry consultant to the library of congress. Gwendolyn was also poet laureate of the state of Illinois. During the late 60s Gwen's poems often mirrored her work as a civil rights activist, displaying a political consciousness. Her first collection of poems named 'A street on Bronzeville' (1945) spoke to the black urban experience and her second being 'Annie Allen' winning her the Pulitzer price in 1949, depicted the poor urban upbringing of black communities. It also focuses on her own upbringing and the difficulties she faced as a black girl growing into adulthood in America. Gwen then went on to publish her first and only novel 'Maud Martha'
(1953) which follows the life of a character who encounters racism and gender inequality throughout her life, being a darker skinned female receiving prejudice from her white and lighter skinned African-American peers. In her honor a junior high school in Harvey, Illinois was named after her and she was also dedicated by Western Illinois University with the 'Gwendolyn Brooks center for African-American literature'. Her books are now held within universities across Illinois; University of Illinois holds archives with permission from her daughter Nora Blakely. The Bancroft Library at UC Berkley also holds a collection of personal papers from her heydays as a famous writer.
Eventide
When the sun sinks behind the mountains,
And the sky is besprinkled with color,
And the neighboring brook is peacefully still,
With a gentle, silent ripple now and then;
When flowers send forth sweet odors,
And the grass is uncommonly green,
When the air is tranquilly sweet,
And the children flock to their mothers' sides,
Then worry flees and comfort presides,
For all know it welcoming evening.Gordon Parks -
The first African-American to be a staff member of the famous magazine LIFE. An exquisite photographer who has produced some beautiful images that has graced Vogue magazines. His 'photojournalism' depicting issues of civil rights, African-American communities and poverty, became popular from the 40s onwards. From his creative visions and experience with photography, he went on to direct and produce major motion pictures such as; 'Shaft' (1971). Being the first African-American to produce and direct in film, Gordon wanted to show to experience of slave and the struggle for black Americans, creating a genre 'Blaxploitation'. He later became the co-founder of Essence Magazine, serving as the editorial director during the early years of the magazines circulation. His powerful imagery and vision to tell the truth through pictures, produced an outcome of now world famous photographs. The messages they convey and the people within them are archived across America; The Gordon Parks Foundation - New York, The Gordon Parks Museum - Kansas, The National Film Registry, Library of Congress - Washington DC, Wichita State University and Kansas State University.
"I saw that the camera could be a weapon against poverty, against racism, against all sorts of social wrongs. I knew at that point I had to have a camera."Marsha P Johnson -
Marsha was a black transwoman living in New York, her main focus was activism. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, Marsha led the rally and movement in fighting for gay rights and liberation. She was at the forefront of the protests during the stonewall riots (1969) fighting for equality and peace within her community. She was also a well know drag queen, who founded the radical organization 'STAR' (Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries). Marsha and close friend Sylvia Rivera began joining street marches and rallies to gay liberation and equal rights. Together in the 70s they opened STAR house, a place of refuge for gay and trans kids, who were disowned by their own families.
In the 80s Marsha was also an advocate for 'ACT UP', a grassroots project to end the AIDS epidemic. Throughout her life Marsha had encountered many struggles, being homeless and poor, turning to sex work to make a living for survival. She was a powerful force in the fight for liberation and continued to inspire others throughout her advocacy.
In 1992 Marsha P Johnsons' death shook the community, Police had ruled it down as suicide, however the speculation to the circumstances of her death remain open.
Throughout her life Marsha faced struggles such as homelessness, bigotry, homophobia and poverty. Marsha engaged in sex work as a way to survive, it was speculated by her friends and community that because of who she was and what she did, her death was a murder case. In 2016 Victoria Cruz re-opened the case, fighting for justice and clarity for the death of Marsha, In 2017 Netflix released a documentary 'The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson'.
It is clear to see that Marsha P. Johnson was a force to be reckoned with, she had a powerful impact on those around her and the community. She was well known for having a warm and loveable personality and a great heart. Throughout her life she fought to make the world a better place and will always remain an integral part of history.
"No pride for some of us, without liberation for us all."Ruby Bridges -
Ruby bridges was the first American-American student to attend William Frantz Elementary school in Louisiana. The school was a predominantly all-white school Ruby had started the school during the time of the desegregation within Louisiana, the court order proceeding in 1960 14th November. This led to integration between different races within schools in the south. U.S Marshalls escorted her to and from school in order to keep her safe against racist abuse and bullying. Ruby Bridges is now the chair of 'The Ruby Bridges foundation' founded in 1999, to support "the values of tolerance, respect, and appreciation of all differences.".
A movie was made in 1998 'Ruby Bridges' to share her story and display her struggles throughout school. There a various exhibitions showcasing that ever famous picture of Ruby walking down the school steps, aswell as paintings made in her honor.
"Don't follow the path. Go where there is no path and begin the trail."Benjamin O. Davis Sr. -
Benjamin was the first African-American to be appointed General in the military (1940). In the second World War, Benjamin served as general and assisted in developing assignments to forward the roles of black soldiers, however they were still segregated within the unit and he did not have a command of troops.
He had served as first Lieutenant in the Spanish - American war (1898) and served for 50 years in various locations.
His posts included; Instructor with 2nd Battalion in Black Tuskegee Institute (372nd regiment), National Guard Ohio, 369th regiment at Wilberforce University, New York National Guard and then Brigadier General for the U.S Army.
After 50 years within the military service Benjamin retired in public ceremony with President Harry S. Truman authorizing, the President later issued a executive order to abolish racial discrimination within the United States Armed forces (1948).
(His legacy and story is reported online; through these links you can find out more about who he was and what he did).
Dr. Rebecca Lee Crumpler -
Rebecca Lee Crumpler became the first black female Doctor in America, she was a physician and nurse for eight years whilst studying at 'The New England Female Medical College' . In 1864 she became the first black female doctor of medicine. She was also an author who wrote of her findings during the 19th century and was again one of the first females to write of physiatry during this time. Her book published in 1883 'A book of medical discourses' was one of the first publications written by African-American females in medicine. During 1865 she had moved to Virginia, working with the Freedmen's Bureau to treat and provide care to freed slaves.
The Medical society 'The Rebecca Lee Society' was named in honor of her, it is one of the first medical societies for African-American women. Her former home is now part of the route and stopping point in the Boston's women's heritage trail.
"Selfish prudence is too often allowed to come between duty and human life."5. Black inventors;
Some of the worlds greatest inventions were created by black people. These individuals are responsible for the creation of things we use every day and some things, perhaps we take for granted. Here are 24 (out of hundreds) of the best inventions:
Black History is important, it becomes our personal responsibility to keep learning about these powerful moments and the people within those moments that shaped history.
Black Lives Matter, Always.
Although I may never understand your experience, I stand with you.
Be an ally, a friend, show support and stand together!
Sources;
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