Ever since a young age I’ve loved Black History Month. Besides its brilliance, the combination of my love for social justice and being raised by a historian-turned-librarian, I look forward to BHM every year. There really shouldn’t be just a “month” designated to African American history, we should be respecting, reflecting and revisiting race relations year-round. It’s frustrating to me (and good natured, empathetic people everywhere) that a huge portion of our society feels marginalized.
While I could write for hours about systematic racism and the need for reform/justice/acceptance, I am going to talk about some neat stuff to look at this month in honor of BHM. It was a challenge to select a few entertainment pieces because there are an infinite number of great ones that were create by members of the Black Community. Here are some things to check out:
Movies
“12 Years a Slave”
Set in the 1800s, “12 Years a Slave” tells the story of Solomon Northup’s kidnapping and enslavement. This film is heart wrenching but honest- and that is why everyone should watch it at least once.
“Hidden Figures”
This film tells the true story of black, female mathematicians and their involvement in the early U.S. space program. “Hidden Figures” is also a book, so if you are like me and prefer to read this is also a great option.
“Shut Up and Dribble”
A Showtime Original, “Shut Up and Dribble” is a docu-series that explores the topics of black athletes and their ever-changing role in culture, society, and politics. It does not matter if you love or hate sports, this series will have you hooked from the very beginning because its not only informative but gripping.
“The Hate U Give”
Although many of us have already seen “The Hate U Give” as it came out last year, it is undoubtedly worth watching again. Besides the incredible acting from Amandla Stenberg (Starr Carter), the storyline (which is also a book!) and social commentary are moving.
“Black Panther”
Similar to “The Hate U Give” in the sense it is very popular and new, “Black Panther” is a must-watch for this February. Not only is it streaming on Netflix, but many theaters are showing it to celebrate BHM.
Books
“Becoming” by Michelle Obama
I must admit, I’m a hardcore Michelle Obama fangirl. Objectively, though, “Becoming” is the best thing I read in 2018 (and I read over 100 books). Michelle Obama fills her memoir with candor and strength while chronicling her personal hardships, upbringing, marriage to Barack, and so much more. I could fill a book with all the praise I have for “Becoming”- yes, I am punny.
“Their Eyes Were Watching God” by Zora Neale Hurston
I also must admit that I am partial to Hurston as an author. She was my first real taste of African-American Literature, so I will always have a soft spot in my heart for her. Not only will “Their Eyes Were Watching God” have you feel the resilience of the black community, but also make you be proud to be a female; Hurston radiates perseverance and self-love through the pages.
“The Selected Poems of Langston Hughes”
Like Zora Neale Hurston, Langston Hughes was also a Harlem Renaissance artist. I have never read a Hughes’ poem that I didn’t like or connect with. He wrote in various different media’s on various different topics. Many of Hughes’ poems reflect on universal experiences in black America while simultaneously spearheading the Jazz Poetry movement.
“Americanah” by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Adichie is a Nigerian author and successful TedTalk contributor. “Americanah” follows the life of a Nigerian woman who comes to the United States for college. The storyline of “Americanah” is as intricate as the narration is flawless. Also, the social commentary and elements drawn from Adichie’s own experience attending college in the U.S. makes for an immersive read.
Miscellaneous Entertainment
“O,” The Oprah Magazine
While I’m guilty of using Oprah’s Excitedly Pointing GIF (see below) on a daily basis, I know Oprah rocks. She has a truly incredible life story, is hard working, honest, generous, etc. O has a copious amount of interesting articles, especially during BHM. Everything Oprah does is “next level” so why would we expect anything less for her BHM issue of O?
Spotify Playlists
The compilation of music that Spotify pieced together for BHM is ~vibes~. They have a “Black History is Happening Now” genre, and, with a name like that you won’t be disappointed. There are multiple playlists you can listen/watch including:
- Black Girl Magic
- This is Prince
- Influence & Inspiration
The Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture Blog
The tagline of this blog is “American History Through the African American Lens”- and that’s a perfect fit. From historical findings to current events and recipe ideas, the NMAAHC blog is informative and easy to use. The main website that’s linked to the Smithsonian has different resources and even more information available.