I sometimes worry that Black History Month is counterproductive. Yes, it’s great to have a platform that celebrates culture and shines a light on the ongoing struggle over race in America. And I’m glad it’s only one month (originally It was just a week!). But BHM commemorations often feel like a checkbox: “This is the time of year to remember to support Black causes, businesses and artists.” In fact, how great would it be if these things became part of our lives all year round?
That’s my dream, so this Black History Month I thought I’d share some of my favorite things to enjoy all year long…
IG accounts that keep me learning: @Ashley Baroness We create videos about little-known and sometimes deliberately ignored corners of history, tracing each topic to the present day. I learned more from her than I did in my high school history class. I was struck by a recent post that breaks down white supremacy (or, as she calls it, “white narcissism”). completely I held his hand and said, “Amen!” Watching Ashley feels like I’m being lectured by a charismatic, clear-eyed professor.
Favorite poem: When I was a teenager, I won a reading contest. for my people Written by Margaret Walker. I remember thinking that I should have chosen a shorter poem. length. But at the same time it is grand and beautiful and full of pride and resistance. We could all use more poetry in our lives, and we could all use more artists speaking truth to power, and Margaret did it so elegantly.
Interior with message: How moving! these pennants from Rayo & Honey?It makes a great gift. I also love their tote bags, keychains, and pens. And I also love the fact that it’s a business built from the heart of a Black woman.
Essential skin care products: What I recommended was Beauty Stat Vitamin C Serum This was my favorite product when I made CoJ’s beauty uniform. Five years later, my passion remains for this luminous serum. pioneering black chemist.
TV shows I always watch on repeat: For five seasons, anxiety Starring Issa Rae, Natasha Rothwell, and other amazing actresses, this movie made me laugh, cringe, cry, and agonize over a fictional love triangle that I was more obsessed with than my own love life. Please tell me if you are Team Daniel or Team Lawrence. (Bonus lecture: Survival of the Thickest, harem, run the worldAnd of course, the OG classic, girlfriend. )
Wine by two sisters: On a cold, dark winter night, red wine calls to me. red blend from black girl magic wines is one of the best of all time, but the truth is, you can’t go wrong with any bottle you choose. Great quality at an affordable price. If you’re in need of new stemware, check out these gorgeous sets. ester colored glass (Amethyst! So beautiful!).
Novels I can’t wait to read: when Tayari Jones Publishing a book is an event. her fourth novel, Kinopens next week, and excitement has been building for months. This is the story of two friends from Louisiana whose lives take very different directions. I can’t wait to get my hands on it!
Bookstore gems: In recent years, the number of black-owned bookstores has been increasing. in kansas city bliss books is run by two sisters who dreamed of opening a bookstore together (wow!) and actually did it. I love it too royalty bookin my hometown of Silver Spring, Maryland. If you’re in New York, definitely check it out Liz’s Book Bar, small bookstore and The Lit Bar.
Beautiful night out: Admittedly, I’m not the most cultured person when it comes to art, but I love dancing. i have seen alvin ailey american dance theater After playing it a few times, it touches your soul. The company was founded in 1958 with the purpose of “enhancing the African American experience with universal humanity, transcending the boundaries of race, faith, and national origin,” and nearly 70 years later, it remains steadfast in its mission. Arts funding, especially BIPOC art, is very precarious right now and needs our support.
A timely article that made me nod: I read a lot of long-form journalism. many — and I’m still thinking Recent Atlantic article by Clint SmithThis article hits so many points about why Black history matters, and why it’s important enough to continue fighting against erasure in this moment. Other black journalists I admire for their insightful views and insight are Tressie McMillan Cottom, Mitchell S. Jackson, and Ta-Nehisi Coates.
Reasons I’m happy to support: As a child of the 70s/80s, I can’t forget the iconic TV ad. United Negro College Fund (especially This one — I still cry at the end!) In the post-Civil Rights era, UNCF helped propel a generation into the middle class by giving children access to education. Decades later, their good work continues. I used one of my book events to raise money for UNCF. We can think of no better way to honor BHM than by supporting this worthy organization.
What are your own recommendations? Please feel free to share it with us.
christine pride I’m a writer, book editor, and content consultant living in Harlem, New York. Her latest book is All the Men I’ve Love AgainYou can read her past Cup of Jo posts here.
PS I have 5 more things to share with you about my reading challenge and my white friends.
(photograph christine pride by Christine Han (for joe cup)
Source: Cup of Jo – cupofjo.com
