Black History Month: Reimagine Your Role
Growing up in predominately Black Schools, I always loved Black History Month. We’d watch movies, have pizza parties, and do fun projects to showcase Black Excellence. I especially enjoyed The Color of Friendship movie on Disney Channel or the Black History Month episodes on The Proud Family. In February, I was extra proud to be Black.
As I got older and more educated, I felt a shift in what I felt should be my role during Black History Month. I felt this pressure to educate non-Black folks and invite them into my culture. It recently that it dawned on me, why is it my responsibility to educate my oppressor? Why should I share a culture that I’m still learning about because it was stolen from me? The answer is, I shouldn’t.
I appreciate the recent efforts from Black folks, pushing for more accountability on all non-Black folks, not just white people. As a Black person, working through my own mental health and trauma, I don’t have the capacity to educate those who aren’t willing to learn. Honestly, no matter the circumstances, it still will never be my responsibility to teach a non-Black person how to not be a racist.
Black Folks, it’s time we reimagine our roles during Black History month and beyond, and here are some ideas.
Restoration
Let’s use this month for rest. As part of my journey of learning and unlearning what “productivity” looks like, I’ve been learning how to listen to my body and rest. Let’s engage in self-care, whatever that may look like for you. A reminder that self-care may not look like face masks and mimosas. Working out, laying in bed all day, or starting a project that you’ve been putting are all methods of self-care. Do what works for you!
Celebration
I love being Black and I will celebrate my Blackness today and everyday. What does celebration look like for you? Dance, honor your ancestors and the Black pioneers of change, or even through a virtual party with the homies. Emphasis on virtual party because we’re still in a pandemic.
Cultivation
What does Blackness mean to you? In what ways do you want to deepen your connection to the Motherland and your ancestors? In what ways will you support the Black youth? Let’s decolonize and nurture our minds in Black Culture. Personally, I’ve been spending more time at my altar meditating, journaling, and playing my African drums. In what ways do you want to grow in your identity?
I hope all my Black folks have an enlightening Black History Month.
New episode of Trixie Chats airs today Feb. 9th at 2:09 PST. Check it out.
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Black, Queer, Seattle-Based Artist
