“I think that the struggle for freedom, as black people and their allies have waged it from the era of slavery to the present, is a struggle for freedom that effects every person in this country, and that has global implications as well.” ~ Angela Davis
This week in Juicy Bites, we discover:
- Thoughts about why a month isn’t enough to scratch the surface of this important topic
- Tips for improving the conversation that Black History Month does bring up
- A visually impactful site for bringing “blacked out” history to light
- A celebration of African American women’s firsts in the workplace
- Powerful words of wisdom from eloquent black authors
At the end of this post, we encourage you to join us for a conversation. This week’s Juicy Bites question for you, dear emerging women, is:
1. Why Not Everyone Supports Black History Month via PBS NewsHour
IndependentLens film More Than a Month is the result of filmmaker Shukree Hassan Tilghman’s cross-country trek to find out if the existence of a Black History Month separates it from American history, and whether its original intent is relevant today. In this video, PBS asks the filmmakers and subjects to share their feelings on Black History Month.
“I don’t want a Black History Month. Black history is American history.” -Morgan Freeman
2. Let’s Fix Black History Month via Slate
Aisha Harris suggests tips to improve the “shortest, most vexed month of the year,” including digging deeper than the usual suspects of black history and choosing to confront the issues of black history rather than just pay it lip service. And perhaps the best tip of all? “Tip #5: Practice tips #1-4 all year round.”
“As an adult, make an effort to learn something new about the black community or experience.” – Aisha Harris
3. Blacked Out History Month via Tumblr
Beautiful collage brings “forgotten history” to life in this blog launched just in time for Black History Month. Their mission is inspired and important, and we look forward to seeing more throughout February and in the months to come.
“Blacked Out History Month is about thinking and reflecting on those history lessons we didn’t learn in school, and transforming the way we view how all our histories intertwine.” – Dream Defenders
4. A History of African American Women in the Workforce via Levo League
As important as it is to confront the past, it is also important to celebrate it as we take on the task of confronting present inequalities. Let this list of barrier-breaking women inspire you as we continue to push for more balance in the workplace.
“The reason they knew who I was is because I told them.” – Ursula Burns, first African American female CEO of a Fortune 500 company
5. 27 Amazingly Powerful Quotes from Black Writers via Huff Post Books
Lastly, a list of inspiring quotes from African American authors. In the spirit of a deeper understanding of Black History Month, we invite you to investigate further if a quotation speaks to you.
“It is the duty of the younger Negro artist… to change through the force of his art that old whispering ‘I want to be white,’ hidden in the aspirations of his people, to ‘Why should I be white? I am a Negro – and beautiful!” – Langston Hughes
We are excited to start a conversation and learn more from YOU, dear emerging women. Please join in with a comment below:
Like what you’re hearing? Dive deeper with us this October at Emerging Women Live 2014. Register before July 31st for big savings.
