Viola Ford Fletcher, affectionately known as “Mother Fletcher,” was a true icon and a powerful voice for justice, known globally as the oldest living survivor of the horrific Tulsa Race Massacre of 1921. Her life spanned over a century, a period during which she bore witness to immense change and persistent struggle for civil rights in America.
The devastating two-day massacre, which saw the destruction of the prosperous Black neighborhood of Greenwood—often called “Black Wall Street”—was a trauma etched into her memory from the time she was a young girl. For decades, the tragedy was largely absent from history books, and survivors like Mother Fletcher carried their pain in silence.
However, in the later years of her extraordinary life, she chose to break that silence, stepping into the national and international spotlight as an unwavering advocate for recognition and reparations. At the remarkable age of 107, she made international headlines when she testified before the U.S. Congress on May 19, 2021, just weeks before the massacre’s 100th anniversary.
Her testimony, delivered with clarity and profound emotional weight, was a stark reminder of the atrocity. “I have lived through the massacre every day,” she stated, recounting the terror of watching her community burn and her family flee for their lives. She stood as the human embodiment of the historical injustice, asserting, “We are asking for justice. We are asking you to help us.”
Mother Fletcher, alongside her younger brother Hughes Van Ellis and fellow survivor Lessie Benningfield Randle, became a leading plaintiff in a historic lawsuit seeking reparations from the city of Tulsa and other entities for the wealth, lives, and property lost during the attack.
Upon her passing, Viola Ford Fletcher transitioned to take her rightful place among the ancestors—a title of profound respect in African and African American culture. Her death is a call to action, reminding the world that the fight she so courageously waged for accountability, historical accuracy, and economic justice is far from over. Her legacy compels the current and future generations to take up the torch and continue the pursuit of the justice and healing she so desperately sought for her community.
We extend our sincere and deepest gratitude to the professor for generously sharing this exceptionally helpful and insightful video. The quality of the content is truly outstanding, and it serves as a testament to their profound expertise and dedication.
The professor’s unwavering commitment to the noble cause of education—specifically, the free and open dissemination of knowledge to a broad public audience—is truly admirable and sets a high standard for academic outreach.
For those who found this video valuable and wish to explore the full breadth of the professor’s important work, we strongly encourage you to visit their official YouTube channel. You can easily access it by clicking on the link provided HERE.
The channel is a rich repository of valuable information, featuring a diverse collection of videos that go into great depth on complex social issues and critical historical contexts. Engaging with this material is an excellent way to continue your learning journey and significantly deepen your comprehensive understanding of these essential topics.
This is for those of you who actually think we Black Americans don’t have a culture… You know who you are!
Now family, if you don’t want to read this long article, just watch the video below from the YouTube Channel Foundational Black American History. It basically says the same thing.
Click HERE if you want to watch a longer version of this video.
The video is an excellent visual resource that summarizes the key concepts discussed in this article, providing a more engaging and easily digestible format. Watching it can offer valuable insights and a deeper understanding of the historical context, and it allows you to absorb the information while multitasking or relaxing.
Black American culture, alternatively recognized as African American culture, is an extraordinarily rich, dynamic, and fundamental component of the broader American society, and an immense force in shaping global culture. It is a profound cultural tradition that emerged from the unique and often brutal experiences of African descendants in the United States, representing a powerful synthesis of ancestral African heritage—preserved and adapted under duress—and the transformative, often oppositional, American environment. This culture is deeply forged by the historical crucible of chattel slavery, the persistent, multi-generational reality of systemic oppression, and the enduring, monumental struggle for fundamental freedom, equality, and dignity. This historical context has fostered an unparalleled collective spirit characterized by resilience, unbreakable community bonds, deep pride, and a constantly evolving, distinctive identity that finds creative expression across every facet of human endeavor.
—–Core Elements and Enduring Contributions: Transformative Influence
The contributions of Black American culture are not merely additive; they are transformative, profoundly shaping the core character of the nation and influencing global trends across numerous domains.Music: The Global Soundtrack and Revolutionary Art Forms
African American culture has exerted a pervasive, revolutionary, and foundational influence on global musical forms. Genres born from the Black experience are the undisputed bedrock of much of modern popular music, driving innovation in melody, rhythm, harmony, and performance worldwide:
Blues: Originating in the Deep South post-emancipation, the Blues served as a vital emotional and narrative outlet, utilizing a distinct 12-bar structure and “call-and-response” patterns to express the existential hardships, hopes, and spiritual strength of the community. It is the direct ancestor of multiple subsequent genres, carrying a foundational emotional gravitas.
Jazz: A uniquely American art form that developed in the vibrant, multicultural setting of New Orleans at the turn of the 20th century. Jazz—with its complexity, polyrhythms, improvisation, and syncopated rhythms—swiftly became recognized as America’s classical music, demanding high artistry and influencing musicians and composers across all continents.
Gospel: Evolving from spirituals—the coded songs of enslaved people—Gospel music is the uplifting, powerful, and deeply emotional voice of the Black church. It provides both profound religious inspiration and a crucial, technical foundation for R&B, Soul, and eventually, Pop music, emphasizing vocal dexterity and powerful, communal harmony.
R&B (Rhythm and Blues), Rock and Roll, and Funk: These genres further expanded the landscape, bridging the gap between sacred and secular music. R&B and Rock and Roll pioneers synthesized the structures of Blues and the energy of Gospel, while Funk, rooted in deep, syncopated basslines and percussive horns, utilized infectious rhythms and raw, passionate delivery to create a distinct sound that influenced disco, pop, and dance music globally.
Hip-Hop and Rap: Emerging from the urban centers of the late 20th century, particularly the Bronx, New York, Hip-Hop culture is a potent, multifaceted global phenomenon. Encompassing MCing (rapping), DJing, breakdancing (B-Boying), and graffiti art, it serves as a powerful and unfiltered medium for storytelling, political commentary, social critique, linguistic innovation, and entrepreneurship, constantly redefining the global popular music landscape.
Oral Tradition and Language: The Spoken Legacy
The maintenance of a strong oral tradition was critically important for cultural and historical preservation during the era of slavery, when literacy was often forbidden by law. This tradition continues to thrive, shaping communication and artistic expression:
Storytelling and Proverbs: These were and remain vital tools for teaching history, preserving cultural memory, communicating ethical principles, and transmitting cultural values across generations, often through stylized and highly dramatic performance.
African American Vernacular English (AAVE): Far from being mere slang, AAVE is a complex, structured, and linguistically rich form of English with its own consistent grammar, syntax, vocabulary, and expressive nuances. It is a powerful cultural identifier and a source of continuous linguistic innovation that profoundly shapes not only literature but also mainstream American speech and global communication via music and media.
Spoken-Word Poetry and Rap: These modern forms are direct and powerful descendants of the traditional oral legacy, emphasizing rhythmic language, sophisticated wordplay, rhetorical flourish, and often containing piercing social and political commentary.
Family, Church, and Community: The Social and Political Foundation
In the face of systemic adversity and the systematic destruction of biological family units during slavery, the Black community built robust, resourceful institutions that served as vital centers of survival, support, and activism:
The Black Church: Historically and contemporarily, the church has been more than a spiritual sanctuary; it has been the single most central social, educational, economic, and political hub for the community. It provided essential leadership, organized the monumental Civil Rights Movement, and continues to foster a critical sense of collective purpose and hope.
Extended Family and Kinship Networks: Strong, often non-biological, extended family structures and “fictive kinship” (treating close friends as relatives) have been essential. This network ensures the care of children, the support of the vulnerable, and the preservation of values, creating a safety net where traditional institutional support was lacking.
Core Values: Central values emphasize deep respect for elders as carriers of history and wisdom, a high degree of community inter-dependency (often summarized by the concept of Ubuntu—”I am because we are”), and a commitment to “giving back” for the collective upliftment of the race.
Cuisine: Soul, Sustenance, and Cultural Ingenuity
The development of “Soul food” and distinct Southern Black cooking traditions is a profound testament to cultural creativity and ingenuity, transforming limited, often poor-quality resources into flavorful, communal, and spiritually resonant meals.
Origins: These food ways were developed by enslaved Africans, blending West African staples (like rice, okra, and black-eyed peas) and traditional cooking techniques (like deep frying and long stewing) with the ingredients available in the Americas, often using overlooked or discarded animal parts and vegetables.
Key Dishes: Signature dishes include staples like fried chicken, richly seasoned macaroni and cheese, collard and other seasoned greens, black-eyed peas, candied yams, and red beans and rice. Soul food is a vital, symbolic part of celebrations, weekly family gatherings, and the preservation of cultural memory.
Art and Literature: Resistance, Identity, and A Declaration of Self
African American art, literature, and performance arts have consistently served as both a detailed record of struggle and a powerful declaration of self-worth, identity, and beauty in a society that often denied all three.
The Harlem Renaissance (1920s-1930s): This period marked an explosive cultural flowering in which writers (like Langston Hughes and Zora Neale Hurston), artists, and musicians celebrated Black life, asserted their intellectual and creative identity, and powerfully challenged racist narratives both domestically and internationally.
Themes: Contemporary expressions continue to explore universal themes—love, loss, morality—through the highly nuanced lens of the Black experience: identity formation, the persistent struggle for justice, the celebration of Black joy, and the complex, intersectional nature of Black American life.
Fashion and Aesthetics: Style, Statement, and Global Influence
Black American fashion is a dynamic force that constantly innovates and influences global trends, often turning necessity into high style:
African Aesthetics: Traditional African elements, such as the use of vibrant, expressive colors, intricate textiles (like kente cloth), and symbolic motifs (like Adinkra), are frequently incorporated and adapted into contemporary styles.
Modern Trends: Modern styles, exemplified by hip-hop fashion (e.g., oversized clothing, high-top fades, visible luxury branding) and the global impact of athletic wear (like iconic Air Jordan sneakers), not only originated in but were fiercely driven and popularized by Black American culture.
Cultural Practices: The tradition of elaborate, highly decorative “Sunday hats” worn by women in Black churches is a notable sartorial expression of dignity, status, and artistry that connects back to African head-wrapping traditions.
Holidays and Commemorations: Honoring History and Collective Memory
Several observances are central to acknowledging and celebrating the history, endurance, and achievements of the culture, ensuring collective memory is maintained:
Black History Month (February): Founded as “Negro History Week” by historian Carter G. Woodson, this month is dedicated to honoring the monumental contributions, history, and achievements of African Americans throughout U.S. and global history.
Juneteenth (June 19): Now a federal holiday, Juneteenth commemorates the day in 1865 when enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, finally received the news of their freedom, marking the effective, though delayed, end of slavery in the United States. It is a celebration of freedom and persistence.
Kwanzaa (December 26 – January 1): A cultural, non-religious holiday established in 1966 that celebrates African heritage, unity, and culture, based on seven core principles known as the Nguzo Saba (The Seven Principles).
Resilience and Activism: The Ongoing Fight for Justice
A shared history of enduring extreme circumstances—from chattel slavery to Jim Crow segregation and modern systemic inequality—has cultivated an extraordinary, deep-seated sense of resilience, collective pride, and unwavering hope against all odds.
Social and Political Engagement: This foundation is the engine for ongoing social and political activism, most famously embodied by the Civil Rights Movement and continuing through modern movements for social justice. This commitment ensures the culture remains active, engaged, and focused on collective advancement, constantly demanding that America live up to its stated ideals.
—–The Profound Diversity and Non-Monolithic Nature of Black American Culture
Black American culture is an extraordinarily complex, dynamic, and fundamentally diverse phenomenon that defies a single, simple definition. It is emphatically non-monolithic, meaning it cannot be treated as a uniform entity but rather as a vast, rich tapestry woven from countless threads of heritage, environment, class, region, and religious experience.
This immense richness is manifested through a broad spectrum of variations, including:
Regional Specificity: Distinct cultural ecosystems have emerged across different American landscapes.
Gullah/Geechee Culture: The unique, isolated culture of the Sea Islands (South Carolina, Georgia, Florida), which has preserved a deep linguistic, artisanal (e.g., basket weaving), and spiritual connection to West Africa that is unparalleled in the continental U.S.
Louisiana Creole and Cajun Traditions: Vibrant, syncretic cultures that blend African, French, Spanish, and Native American influences, giving rise to unique music (Zydeco) and cuisine.
Urban Cultures: The diverse, fast-paced urban cultures of Northern and Midwestern cities like New York, Chicago, and Detroit, which fostered landmark movements in Jazz, Blues, Motown, and Hip-Hop, and developed distinct local dialects and style.
Socioeconomic and Class Stratifications: Experiences within the Black community are also shaped by economic status and social class. Different socioeconomic groups often have distinct cultural markers, traditions, educational priorities, and leisure activities, further fragmenting the idea of a singular “Black experience” while still sharing the overarching legacy of the struggle for racial equality.
Religious and Spiritual Practices: A wide array of spiritual traditions contribute to the culture, from the historically central Black Christian denominations (Baptist, AME, CME) that served as cultural and political anchors, to the significant presence of Islam (including the Nation of Islam and Sunni communities), African indigenous religions, and non-theistic belief systems.
Crucially, the dynamism of Black American culture is continuously enhanced by the growing population of Black immigrants from the Caribbean and the continent of Africa. This ongoing infusion acts as a profound catalyst for cultural evolution, deepening and broadening the overall Black experience in the United States. Each incoming group contributes invaluable, unique elements:
Caribbean Contributions: Immigrants from nations like Jamaica, Haiti, Trinidad, and Barbados introduce distinct English, French, and Spanish-based creole languages, influential musical forms (e.g., Reggae, Soca, Zouk), rich political traditions, and diverse culinary staples (e.g., jerk seasoning, roti, patties).
African Contributions: New arrivals from West, East, and South Africa bring a multitude of national languages (e.g., Yoruba, Amharic, Swahili), diverse cuisines, and specific cultural practices, enriching the community’s connection to the global African diaspora.
The rich tapestry of Black American culture is a dynamic and ever-evolving mosaic, continuously enriched by a multitude of influences. These influences, particularly the recent cultural contributions from the African diaspora—including immigrants from the Caribbean, various African nations, and elsewhere—interact with and often hybridize established Black American traditions. This makes the culture a living, breathing entity that is perpetually redefining itself.
This continuous process of synthesis and cross-pollination is visible across all facets of Black American life. In music, the sounds of Afrobeats and Caribbean dancehall blend seamlessly with the foundational genres of jazz, hip-hop, R&B, and gospel, creating new, globally infectious rhythms and styles. In cuisine, new spices, cooking techniques, and ingredients from West Africa and the islands are being incorporated into and expanding the scope of traditional Southern and soul food, leading to a culinary renaissance. Fashion, language, and artistic expression also reflect this vibrant fusion, with distinctive accents, sartorial choices, and narrative perspectives adding layers of complexity to the broader cultural narrative.
The vibrant tapestry of Black American culture is a dynamic and ever-evolving phenomenon, rooted in the profound history of the descendants of enslaved Africans, whose resilience, ingenuity, and cultural contributions form the indispensable bedrock of the American experience. This deep historical foundation, marked by both struggle and triumph, acts as the primary source of its unique character, artistic forms, and community structures.
Yet, this culture is not a static relic of the past; it is a constantly shifting, self-renewing mosaic, significantly enriched by the ongoing cultural dialogue with recent Black immigrants from the Caribbean, Africa, and other parts of the global Black diaspora. The interplay between these two powerful streams—the established Black American heritage and the expansive, diverse traditions brought by new arrivals—creates a cultural entity that is more complex, resilient, inventive, and globally connected than ever before. This convergence is a powerful demonstration that Black culture in the United States is fundamentally not monolithic. Instead, it is an integrated network of local, national, and transnational identities, each drawing strength from its deep historical roots while simultaneously expanding its scope through global connections.
This ongoing cultural dialogue manifests across every facet of American life. In music, for example, the foundational genres of jazz, blues, gospel, and hip-hop, created by the descendants of the enslaved, continually absorb and integrate new rhythms and sonic textures from Afrobeats, Dancehall, and Zouk, propelling Black music to the forefront of global innovation. In cuisine, new spices, cooking techniques, and ingredients from West Africa and the Caribbean blend with established soul food and Creole traditions, creating a fusion that is both nostalgic and avant-garde. In language and fashion, the infusion of global Black perspectives keeps the culture at the cutting edge of identity expression.
This continual cross-pollination ensures that Black American culture remains a potent engine of American creativity and global soft power. It is an enduring testament to the power of cultural synthesis, demonstrating how the retention of a painful, yet ultimately powerful, heritage can coexist and thrive alongside a radical, expansive embrace of the new. It is this unique ability to draw strength from both deep history and expansive global input that guarantees Black American culture will remain at the very forefront of global innovation, social discourse, and identity formation for generations to come.
Greetings! Although this website is about the beautiful way of life called Capoeira Angola, throughout this website, I do share articles, personal reflections, and diverse content exploring the multifaceted experiences of Black men, both here in the United States and in Brazil.
For those who genuinely question the fundamental premise behind the “Black Lives Matter” movement, I urge you to watch this video, and immerse yourself in the lived realities and historical injustices that necessitate such a declaration.
This is not merely a slogan; it is a plea for recognition, equality, and an end to systemic discrimination that continues to affect Black communities worldwide.
The narratives presented on this site delve into the daily triumphs and tribulations, the joys and the pains, the resilience and the resistance that define our journeys. From the casual microaggressions that chip away at our sense of belonging, to the more overt forms of discrimination that can have life-altering consequences, we aim to shed light on the pervasive nature of racial bias.
In the United States, the legacy of slavery, Jim Crow laws, and ongoing racial disparities in areas such as criminal justice, education, and healthcare continue to shape the lives of Black men. The fear of being unfairly targeted, the burden of proving one’s innocence, and the constant battle against stereotypes are realities that many of us face daily.
Similarly, in Brazil, a nation with the largest population of people of African descent outside of Africa, Black men grapple with a unique set of challenges rooted in a complex history of slavery and entrenched racial inequality. Despite the vibrant Afro-Brazilian culture, systemic racism manifests in economic disparities, police brutality, and a lack of representation in positions of power.
Through personal stories, analytical essays, and a curated selection of resources, this website seeks to:
Amplify the voices of Black men: Providing a space for authentic self-expression and shared experiences.
Educate and inform: Offering insights into the historical, social, and cultural contexts that shape our lives.
Challenge stereotypes: Dismantling harmful misconceptions and promoting a more nuanced understanding of Black masculinity.
Advocate for change: Inspiring dialogue and action towards a more just and equitable society for all.
Join us as we explore the rich tapestry of Black manhood, celebrating our strengths, confronting our struggles, and collectively striving for a future where our lives are not just acknowledged, but truly valued.
Youtube features numerous videos discussing “The history they didn’t tell you,” particularly focusing on African and Afro-diasporic culture. These videos uncover neglected narratives that highlight the struggles, achievements, and contributions of these communities to global culture, showcasing their resilience and creativity. By delving deep into historical contexts, they shed light on the vibrant traditions, artistic expressions, and significant events that have shaped these cultures over centuries. The aim is to educate and inspire by revealing a rich tapestry of history often overlooked in mainstream discussions, thus fostering a deeper understanding of the past and its influence on the present. Each video serves as a powerful reminder of the diverse perspectives that play a critical role in shaping our collective identity, urging viewers to reflect on the interconnectedness of cultures and the importance of inclusivity in our understanding of history. In doing so, these narratives not only honor the past but also encourage a dialogue about cultural heritage and its relevance in today’s society, ultimately striving to empower future generations with knowledge and appreciation for the myriad contributions of African and Afro-diasporic peoples.
In today’s installment…
Today marks the 105th anniversary of a tragic and pivotal event in American history: the Ocoee Massacre. Beginning on November 2, 1920, this horrific atrocity in the rural settlement of Ocoee, Florida, stands as a stark and painful reminder of the depths of racial violence and its devastating, long-lasting consequences. Fueled by deeply ingrained racial tensions and a pervasive culture of white supremacy, the violence escalated with terrifying rapidity, leading to the deaths of an untold number of Black and white individuals.
One of the most poignant and brutal outcomes of the massacre was the lynching of Julius ‘July’ Perry. Perry was not merely a resident of Ocoee, but a successful Black businessman and a respected community leader. His murder in downtown Orlando was a calculated act of terror, explicitly intended to intimidate and suppress the burgeoning aspirations of the Black community. It was a stark message of the dangers faced by those who dared to challenge the established racial hierarchy.
Historians have rightly described the Ocoee Massacre as the “single bloodiest day in modern American political history.” Its impact reverberated far beyond the immediate violence, leading to the forced displacement of hundreds of Black citizens from Ocoee. These families, stripped of their homes, their livelihoods, and everything they had painstakingly built, were driven out of the town in a brutal act of racial cleansing. For decades, Ocoee remained an almost exclusively white town, a chilling testament to the power of racial violence to reshape communities and erase Black presence.
The events of November 2, 1920, and the days that followed, lay bare a dark chapter in American history where Black citizens were systematically denied their fundamental rights, most notably the right to vote. The spark that ignited the massacre was the courageous attempts by Black residents to exercise their suffrage, a right guaranteed by the 15th Amendment, but violently resisted by white mobs. This tragic episode serves as a powerful and painful illustration of the systemic racism and pervasive voter suppression that characterized the Jim Crow era, highlighting the lengths to which white supremacists would go to maintain their power and control.
For a more comprehensive and in-depth understanding of this critical historical event, further details can be found HERE. The Ocoee Massacre is not merely an isolated incident; it serves as a crucial case study for examining the historical roots of racial inequality, the enduring legacy of white supremacy, and the ongoing struggle for civil rights and justice in the United States. Its lessons remain profoundly relevant as we continue to grapple with issues of racial injustice and the fight for true equality.
Youtube is full of videos that talk about “The history they didn’t tell you,” especially it seems, when they’re about African and Afro-diasporic culture. These videos delve deep into the rich and often overlooked narratives that have shaped these communities, providing insights into their struggles, achievements, and contributions to global culture. From the powerful resistance movements to the vibrant artistic expressions that have emerged, these stories highlight the resilience and creativity of the African diaspora. Well here, we’re gonna highlight some of these stories that not only educate but also inspire, showcasing the vibrant tapestry of history that is often sidelined in mainstream discussions. By exploring these narratives, we hope to contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the past and its impact on the present.
In this first installment…
The British government vowed freedom to enslaved people if they could escape and take up arms against their Patriot enslavers. This promise, however, was not just a mere obligation; it represented a beacon of hope for many who yearned for liberation from the shackles of bondage. But when the British failed to deliver the promised land in Nova Scotia, leaving the Black Loyalists disillusioned and without the support they were led to expect, they found themselves at a crossroads. The Black Loyalists needed a leader to step up, someone courageous enough to sail across the ocean and demand a solution to their plight.
That man would be Thomas Peters, a former prince who escaped enslavement in North Carolina and embarked on a brave journey toward freedom. Having experienced the brutality of slavery firsthand, Peters understood the gravity of their situation and was determined to advocate for the rights and dignity of his fellow Black Loyalists, whose stories were often overshadowed by the dominant narratives of history. With his noble background and unwavering resolve, he emerged as a pivotal figure in the quest for justice and equality, tirelessly rallying others to join his cause and speaking out against the injustices they faced.
Through his unwavering efforts, Peters not only sought to uplift his community but also aimed to forge a path toward a more equitable society, one that recognized the inherent dignity and worth of every individual. His transformative leadership inspired a renewed sense of hope within a community desperately seeking a way forward in a land that had promised them freedom but delivered only uncertainty and despair. As he worked tirelessly to unite their voices, he championed their struggles against a backdrop of systemic oppression, advocating for justice and equality in every forum available. Peters understood the power of collective action and dedicated himself to educating others about their rights and the importance of standing together, rallying support from neighboring communities and forming coalitions that transcended social and economic barriers. In this way, he not only addressed immediate issues but also planted the seeds for long-term change, fostering a spirit of resilience and empowerment that would resonate for generations to come.
Earlier this year, the African Union declared that “reparations” would be the “theme” for this year, highlighting the long-standing conversation surrounding the impact of colonialism and slavery on the African continent and its people. However, they have also declared that they will speak for the “diaspora” (read: American Blacks) on this issue, claiming to represent the interests and voices of those who have been affected by these historical injustices.
This stance raises important questions about the authenticity of their representation and the potential implications for funding, as they intend to take the money too! It is crucial to consider whether this approach truly reflects the desires and needs of the diaspora or if it serves more as a political maneuver to gain access to financial resources that could be better utilized in direct support of communities in need. Furthermore, one must examine the broader context in which these representations are made, probing deeper into the motivations of those involved and the potential conflicts of interest that may arise.
Are these representatives genuinely engaging with the community voices they claim to prioritize, or are they more focused on their own agendas? This complexity highlights a vital need for transparency and accountability in the processes that govern funding distributions, ensuring that the voices of marginalized groups within the diaspora are not only heard but actively shape the policies that affect their lives and futures. Only then can we ascertain whether the funds will truly contribute to meaningful development or if they risk being squandered on superficial projects that fail to address the root issues facing these communities.
Shout out to the professor for creating and posting this insightful video.
The Professor creates engaging videos on black empowerment, addressing historical and current issues to promote critical thinking and reflection among his audience. Click HERE to check out his YouTube channel, which fosters a community focused on significant black topics, facilitating diverse viewpoints and dialogue. By featuring guest speakers and multimedia elements, he enhances learning and encourages discussion of important narratives, cultivating belonging and respect while driving positive change in the community.
TODAY IN BLACK MEDIA delivers news and cultural discussions from an African American viewpoint, emphasizing often-overlooked global black achievements and significant stories. It serves as a crucial resource for understanding the nuances of black life, fostering conversations about race, culture, and identity. By amplifying underrepresented voices, it encourages engagement with societal issues and promotes unity within and beyond the African American community, aiming to create a vibrant narrative that celebrates black cultures worldwide.
Today… I have one more thing to report about Junereenth.
A Black North Carolina woman waiting to have her truck serviced decided to spend her money elsewhere after two employees and another customer appeared to mock Juneteenth, a significant holiday celebrating the emancipation of enslaved people in the United States. Frustrated and feeling disrespected, the woman, who was the only Black person in Synergy Auto Care in Wilson, North Carolina, at the time, confronted the staff directly. She emphatically told an employee to, “Give me my f***ing truck! Pull my truck around, please. Pull my truck around and give me my truck.” This moment encapsulates the broader issues of racial insensitivity and the need for businesses to foster an inclusive environment for all customers. Dr. Rashad Richey and Maz Jobrani weigh in on this troubling incident in the above video, delving into the implications of such behavior and discussing the importance of accountability in service industries.
Okay, before I go any further, I want my readers here to understand…
SLAVERY NEVER ENDED IN THE USA, IT ONLY BECAME ILLEGAL!
For the record, slavery in the United States officially became illegal with the ratification of the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution on December 6, 1865. The amendment states that “Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction.”
While President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation, issued on January 1, 1863, declared that slaves in Confederate states in rebellion would be free, it did not apply to border states loyal to the Union. Therefore, the 13th Amendment was essential to ensure the abolition of slavery throughout the entire United States.
The Senate passed the 13th Amendment in April 1864, and the House of Representatives followed suit in January 1865. The amendment was then sent to the states for ratification and became law in December 1865 after receiving the necessary approval from three-fourths of the states.
Now for those of you out there who want to learn about Juneteenth and it’s signifignance, I advise you to search this website for other posts I made about it on this website… Or you can GOOGLE IT.
TODAY IN BLACK MEDIA provides news and cultural discussions from an African American perspective, highlighting often-overlooked global black achievements. It serves as a resource for understanding black life, showcasing diverse experiences and significant stories while fostering conversations about race, culture, identity, and media representation. By amplifying underrepresented voices, it empowers audiences to engage with societal challenges and promote unity within and beyond the African American community.
Today, we have a special message from The Professor.
By now, everyone has heard about the massive destruction of Los Angeles during the wildfires that ravaged the area, leaving a trail of devastation in their wake. But there’s a place just outside of LA that few have heard of: Altadena. Its story, both before and after the wildfires, is a perfect microcosm of why reparations are owed.
The rich history of this small community, filled with diverse cultures and resilient residents, paints a stark contrast to the environmental and social injustices that have plagued it over the years. While the fires brought widespread attention to the urgent need for sustainable practices and better support for vulnerable neighborhoods, Altadena’s experience highlights the long-standing disparities faced by such areas, as they continue to rebuild and seek acknowledgment for the systemic neglect that has led to their struggles. In many ways, the narrative of Altadena is not just about recovery; it is about addressing the historical injustices that have been exacerbated by disasters, ultimately advocating for a fairer and more equitable future for all its residents.
Shoutout to Professor BLACK TRUTH for his compelling stories that engage and inspire audiences from all walks of life. His unique narrative style captivates listeners, fostering a deep connection through thought-provoking insights. Check out his channel HERE for content that challenges conventional thinking and encourages meaningful discussions on a variety of pressing issues. Each video delves into topics that promote critical analysis and reflection, making it invaluable for anyone looking to expand their perspective. Don’t miss out on exploring his work, as it offers a diverse range of viewpoints that can significantly broaden your understanding of the world and its complexities.
TODAY IN BLACK MEDIA offers news and cultural discussions from an African American perspective, highlighting overlooked global black achievements that often go unnoticed in mainstream media. It serves as a vital resource for understanding the complexities of black life, bridging community gaps by showcasing diverse experiences that shape the rich fabric of the African diasporic narrative. The platform elevates significant stories, from historical milestones to contemporary issues, and fosters inclusive conversations about race, culture, identity, and media representation. By amplifying the voices and perspectives of underrepresented individuals, TODAY IN BLACK MEDIA empowers its audience to engage critically with societal challenges, inspiring action and fostering unity within and beyond the African American community.
Today, we have a special message from The Professor.
Yes, I know I should have posted it yesterday, but it is what it is, and sometimes life has its own schedule.
Our annual recognition of black media concludes as we reflect on our significant achievements over the past year, acknowledging the hard work, creativity, and dedication that have gone into each project. This event is not just a celebration, but also an opportunity to highlight the remarkable leaders who inspire us and pave the way for future generations: YOU!
Your contributions have made a profound impact on our community, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the richness of our narratives. Each story shared and each voice amplified has strengthened our connection, allowing us to embrace our unique experiences while celebrating our shared values.
Let us come together to honor these accomplishments and the collective strength that binds us, recognizing the transformative power of collaboration and the importance of supporting one another as we continue to grow and evolve together. Together, we can create a legacy that inspires future generations and deepens our commitment to the vibrant tapestry of our community.
TODAY IN BLACK MEDIA offers news and cultural discussions from an African American perspective, highlighting diverse voices and global black achievements that often remain underrepresented in mainstream platforms. It serves as a vital resource to understand the complexities of black life and culture, bridging gaps between communities by illuminating the rich tapestry of experiences that shape the African American narrative. By showcasing prominent figures, influential narratives, and grassroots movements, it aims to amplify important stories that reflect both struggles and triumphs, inspiring change through an inclusive dialogue on race, culture, identity, and representation in the media.
This dialogue is not just about sharing information; it is about fostering a deeper connection between individuals of varying backgrounds and promoting cross-cultural understanding. Ultimately, TODAY IN BLACK MEDIA contributes to a more equitable society by encouraging a profound appreciation for black experiences and challenging stereotypes, allowing for a more nuanced view of the diverse realities within the African American community.
In today’s installment, we have a special statement from professor Black Truth.
April marks the beginning of Black Media Appreciation Month, and the professor is starting this month off by saluting and acknowledging the incredible individuals who make black media what it is: us!
Black people, the very reason for black empowerment, stand united in the celebration of our heritage and achievements. Our voices, creativity, and perspectives play a pivotal role in shaping the diverse narratives that reflect our culture and community, intertwining our unique experiences and histories into compelling stories.
It is vital to recognize the profound impact that our art, journalism, music, and literature have on society, not only challenging stereotypes but also fostering understanding and appreciation. As we honor this month, let us reaffirm our commitment to uplift one another, support emerging voices, and continue to create platforms where our stories can thrive, ensuring that the legacy of black media is celebrated for generations to come.
The Professor creates engaging videos that encourage critical thinking and discussions among viewers. Explore his YouTube channel HERE for thought-provoking analyses and join a community passionate about knowledge and understanding.
Jogo Corpo Fechado 