February is Black History Month, and this year has a potential to reach more people in the wake of our recent social justice movements. Plus since we are still in quarantine, there are a plethora of events, resources, and programs available online for easier accessibility. I relished the inspiration of watching and listening to the Dance Theatre of Harlem’s 51st Anniversary Founders Week that happened last week including amazing conversations with dancers from over the years as well as the movers and shakers behind the scenes that helped build the legacy of DTH. Reclamation Ventures in Brooklyn has been doing an outstanding daily email of “28 Days of Black History” bringing thoughtful, provocative articles to my inbox everyday this month. Haymarket Books continues to offer profound talks featuring authors and social justice advocates tackling huge conversations with intelligence, dedication, and activism. Ibram X. Kendi and Keisha N. Blain came out with, “Four Hundred Souls: A Community History of African America. 1619-2019” at the beginning of this month. It’s a brilliant book written by ninety writers each examining 5 year increments of our history. It dives into history, culture, people, connections, and so much more you never knew existed and does so in a celebration of unity and diversity. And this month’s Qabila book club is exploring Cynthia J Becker’s “Blackness in Morocco: Gnawa Identity through Music and Visual Culture,” which is a great read. (Everyone is welcome to join this casual book club. More details HERE. )
There is a tremendous about to celebrate in Black History. But it comes with an understanding of the systemic racism that has restricted, harmed, and silenced so much of our Black communities. Here are three resources I whole heartedly recommend as tools to help understand our history, privilege, and how to grow forward.
First, I’m a huge fan of Brene Brown and feel like her “Unlocking Us” podcast has been one of the most inspiring and growing resources to come out this past year. This episode in particularly is something I want to share become it addresses a root issue of where we are and how we build forward~ dehumanization and accountability. Please take a listen and share your thoughts. Listen HERE.
Next, check out Baratude’s “How to Citizen”. Each episode is full of thought provoking talks about our current world and how we can build forward. It’s action oriented and about getting into the work of building strong communities and connections. It’s about how each of us make a difference. It’s inspiring and so much of the advocacy I hope we can nurture. Listen HERE.
Lastly, the Diversity and Resiliency Institute of El Paso has one of the best online programs I have taken tackling racism, bias, nuance, and complexity to develop an understanding of what it means to be anti-racist and how to be more involved in your own work and participation. They are offering another session with registration happening now. It’s only $5 (although they will accept donations), and I truly cannot recommend this program enough and will in fact to taking it again as a refresher. For more info, click HERE.
How are you celebrating Black History Month?