What to Read, Listen to, and Watch for Black History Month
February is Black History Month, a time to celebrate and learn from Black stories and voices in the United States. Have you ever wondered why February? Well, in 1926, historian Carter G. Woodson and the Association for the Study of African American Life and History designated the second week of February as “Negro History Week.” They chose the second week because it includes the birthdays of both Abraham Lincoln and abolitionist Frederick Douglass. The celebration of Black history and accomplishments grew into a month-long event, and, in 1976, Black History Month was officially recognized by President Gerald Ford.
The reality today is that Black history and experiences are still largely absent from mainstream American education, as history textbooks and curriculums often include whitewashed narratives. If we’ve learned anything from the past year, it’s that we have more to learn. This year’s Black History Month theme (chosen annually by the ASALH) is “The Black Family: Representation, Identity, and Diversity.” Here are some resources that explore the Black experience, roots, family, solidarity and justice:
Books
*Click here for a list of Black-owned bookstores you can support.
The Color Purple by Alice Walker
This novel is narrated through letters by main character Celie, who writes first to God and to her family members. The book follows the experiences of African American women living in Georgia in the 1930s, describing the hardships and abuses they endure, as well as their companionship, compassion, resilience and bravery.
The Autobiography of Malcolm X by activist Malcolm X and journalist Alex Haley
Originally published in 1964, this book consolidates a series of interviews with Malcolm X in the two years prior to his assassination. Readers are taken on a journey through Malcolm X’s remarkable life, his activism and his philosophy.
Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson
In this memoir, Bryan Stevenson details his experience as a lawyer in the South. He tells incredible stories brimming with humanity, compassion and courage to highlight the desperate need for reform in the justice system and within the social order. (This book has also been adapted into a movie!)
Movies
13th, directed by Ava Duvernay
This 2016 documentary draws on the expertise of notable scholars, activists and lawmakers to address the epidemic of mass incarceration. Duvernay outlines the history of slavery and the civil rights movement, noting that slavery has been reimagined and legalized through the modern prison industrial complex. Find it on Netflix!
When They See Us, also directed by Ava Duvernay
This crime drama miniseries is based on the true events of the 1989 false conviction of five Black teens for the rape and assault of a white woman. The four-part series dives into the lives of the boys and their families, and the effect of their wrongful conviction, until their 2002 release. Available with a Netflix subscription.
If Beale Street Could Talk, directed by Barry Jenkins
This film is about justice and love—it follows the efforts of a young woman to prove the innocence of her imprisoned lover before the birth of their child. If Beale Street Could Talk creatively and candidly explores Black family and romantic relationships in a prejudiced society. Available for streaming with a Hulu subscription, or for rent on Amazon.
Becoming, a documentary about Michelle Obama
Becoming is based on Michelle Obama’s powerful 2018 memoir detailing her life before and during her husband’s terms in the White House. Available for streaming on Netflix.
Podcasts
Heather McGhee on “Armchair Expert”
Podcast hosts Dax Shepherd and Monica Padman interview McGhee, an American political commentator and strategist. They talk about race in America and how it affects everyone.
“Seeing White” by Scene On Radio
This 14-episode series attempts to address what it means to be white, leaning into the history of whiteness, how it was created and how it has been used to uphold racial inequality.
“Code Switch” by NPR
This podcast looks at the subject of race from all sides, examining how it impacts politics, pop culture, history, sports, and more. Hosted by journalists of color, “Code Switch” tackles intimidating complexities of racial, ethnic and cultural issues with curiosity and candor.
About the Author
Emmy Luker is a writer and MDiv candidate at Fuller Theological Seminary. She is passionate about speaking and writing about what is true, and doing it in a way people can and want to hear. Originally from Colorado, she is a big fan of alpine views and mountain hikes, but she is learning to love the wind and the lake as a recent transplant in Chicago.