Ideas for Black History Month...
Did you know?
Black History Month is a great time to stop and take stock of some of the contributions made by black people throughout history. With that in mind, we look at twelve milestones along the way, including astronauts, Grammy winners, and BAFTA nominations. How many of these did you know? Visit Did You Know? Looking at some Firsts and Pioneering Events
Hair
Hair means something different to each of us, but Black hair has a meaningful history as a symbol of survival, resistance and celebration.
Here are some things to know and appreciate about the rich cultural, aesthetic and social history of Black hair:
- Hair was a sacred cultural and spiritual symbol in ancient African societies. Braids and other intricate hairstyles were historically worn to signify marital status, age, religion, wealth, and rank in society.
- Laws passed in the 18th century forced Black women in America to cover their hair in public. This was the first step in a process of systematic culture and identity erasure
- Dreadlocks represent a renewed sense of pride in African physical characteristics and a deeper spiritual connection, as they are believed to connect wearers to Jah (God) and earth-force. This belief in dreadlocks holding physical power is linked, by some, to the biblical story of Samson who lost his strength when Delilah cut his seven locks.
- In the 1960s, the afro became a symbol of self-empowerment and activism. The natural afro became a popular statement of power, pride, and resistance
- World Afro Day was founded to normalise afros and their natural texture and end discrimination towards people who wish to wear their hair in their natural afros. World Afro Day is now celebrated every year on the 15th September.
Hip Hop History
From the street corner to the world stage, hip hop has grown into one of the world’s most prominent musical genres and cultural influences. Explore significant events in hip hop history and its explosive evolution.
Ever since its humble beginnings, Hip Hop has spoken truth to power and challenged the status quo. Protest and resistance have been common elements of this genre of music, evoking the fight for racial equality and communicating anger at socio-economic conditions that shaped the lives of many Black people. Icon Collective Magazine chronicles the main players, movers, and shakers of Hip Hop.
Rice and Peas
As part of Black History Month celebrations, we are looking at some delicious recipes from around the world. Joanna Adeyinka-Burford mentioned her Grandma Lolis and her love of Rice and Peas... which got us thinking! As our tummies started to rumble, we looked for the ideal warming recipe for rice and peas, which we are delighted to present here, so if you haven't tried rice and peas before, there's really no excuse now!
You can serve rice and peas as a side with Caribbean-style jerk chicken, or other barbecued meats. Oh, and the 'peas' are actually kidney beans! Visit Black History Month Recipe: Jamaican Rice and Peas
Recommended Books
Across the African diaspora, Black people have used literature as a way to understand both the brutality and the joy of the world around them. They’ve wielded their words as weapons in some of the fiercest battles against systemic racism, transphobia, misogynoir, and colonialism. And they’ve told beautiful, unforgettable stories about how Black folks live, love, and survive.
On this list of essential books for Black History Month, you’ll likely find some classics you know and love. But you might also see titles and authors that you may have missed. We hope that this list will help you expand your knowledge of the Black literary canon and discover the richness of the diaspora. (via Shondaland)
Must Read Books For Black History Month
Martin Luther King
Martin Luther King Jr. (1929 -1968) was an American Baptist minister and activist, one of the most prominent leaders in the civil rights movement from 1955 until his assassination in 1968.
An African American church leader, King advanced civil rights for people of colour in the United States through nonviolence and civil disobedience. Inspired by his Christian beliefs and the nonviolent activism of Mahatma Gandhi, he led targeted, nonviolent resistance against Jim Crow laws and other forms of discrimination in the United States.
... but you all knew that, right?
Why not test your knowledge on Martin Luther King with this quiz, and learn some more fascinating facts about the man, the myth, the legend! Take The Quiz Here!