It is incredibly important to recognize black success, especially during black history month.
Earlier this month we highlighted the accomplishments of four black historical figures who helped further the Gay Rights Movement. We have celebrated the past, so with the end of the month quickly approaching it is time we celebrate the present and future.
Here three incredibly talented women who are changing the talent industries
Janelle Monae
Photo courtesy of Rolling Stone
You might recognize Janelle Monae from this year’s Grammy awards, where she performed a modified version of her hit song, “Make Me Feel.” Monae’s music is an amazing mix of funk, rap and R&B. If you listen to any of her five albums there is a good chance you will find at least one song you like. Through the song, Monae tells a narrative of Cindi Mayweather, an android from a dystopian future who is fighting against the oppression of robot-kind. This narrative is not only complex and compelling, but also reflects on the pain and difficulties of all those who feel “othered” in society, something a queer black woman like Janelle writes incredibly well.
Angel Haze
Photo courtesy of Phillip Nguyen
Angel Haze, who now goes by Roes, visited USF in the Fall of 2017 for our homecoming concert. Seeing her perform in person is an experience. She gets into every song, and really connects with the audience. She even got into the crowd and danced with us.
Roes is a mixed black and Cherokee agender musician who sings about her truth, experiences, and struggles with identity and trauma.
She has released two albums and has stayed touring most of her career. She is extremely active on social media by connecting with her followers and fans directly, and spreading a message of being your true uncensored self.
Laverne Cox
Photo courtesy of People
If you watch Orange is the New Black you will probably recognize Laverne Cox, who plays Sophia Burset. Cox is a transgender actress and activist who is outspoken about how important it is to continue being loud and proud of yourself and your identity, even in the face of oppression. During an interview with L Studio she gave advice to all those struggling with being strong in the face of a bully.
“It’s important with all of the messages that might tell you otherwise that you have that in yourself to say that ‘I am beautiful. I am smart, and I amazing.’”
Photo courtesy of Huffington Post