Yoonjeong Yang’ 24
February marks Black History Month, a nationwide celebration honoring the triumphs and struggles of African-Americans throughout U.S. history. This annual observation was commenced in 1926 with the establishment of "Negro History Week" by historian Carter G. Woodson to raise awareness of black history and culture. Initially, Negro History Week was observed during the second week of the month because it coincides with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, both of whom were influential in the abolishment of slavery. During 1960s, however, as acceptance of this commemoration grew, Negro History Week evolved into what is now Black History Month.
While it is important to remember the rich history of African Americans in the United States, Black History Month is also time to recognize that much more work needs to be done to guarantee equal rights for African Americans in modern society. To effectively combat systemic racism, we must endeavor to be “anti-racist” in every aspect of our lives, and in order to accomplish this, it is vital that we understand history-particularly, the history of how people of different races have struggled to shape our world today. One of the best ways to do this is by reading books. Reading should serve as a step ladder leading to the ultimate goal of anti-racism, with each rung addressing a different way to eradicate racism’s insidious hold on all of us. We must educate ourselves, but we should not stop there. We must also take tangible action to constantly move forward by engaging in conversations on racism and leaning into topics that may be uncomfortable. To celebrate Blank History Month, dive into some of the books recommended by St. Mark's school library to deepen your appreciation and understanding of African American history. And remember: Every month is Black History Month.
Be Free or Die: the Amazing Story of Robert Smalls' Escape from Slavery to Union Hero by Cate Lineberry
“Cate Lineberry's Be Free or Die is a compelling narrative that illuminates Robert Smalls’ amazing journey from slave to Union hero and ultimately United States Congressman. This captivating tale of a valuable figure in American history gives fascinating insight into the country's first efforts to help newly freed slaves while also illustrating the many struggles and achievements of African Americans during the Civil War.”
The Last Slave Ship by Cate Lineberry
“The incredible true story of the last ship to carry enslaved people to America, the remarkable town its survivors founded after emancipation, and the complicated legacy their descendants carry with them to this day--by the journalist who discovered the ship's remains. The Last Slave Ship remains optimistic - an epic tale of one community's triumphs over great adversity and a celebration of the power of human curiosity to uncover the truth about our past and heal its wounds.”
Twisted by Emma Dabiri
“Emma Dabiri explores the ways in which black hair has been appropriated and stigmatized throughout history, with ruminations on body politics, race, pop culture, and Dabiri’s own journey to loving her hair. Deeply researched and powerfully resonant, Twisted proves that far from being only hair, black hairstyling culture can be understood as an allegory for black oppression and, ultimately, liberation.”
Black Brother, Black Brother by Jewell Parker Rhodes
“From Jewell Parker Rhodes comes a powerful coming-of-age story about two brothers, one who presents as white, the other as black, and the complex ways in which they are forced to navigate the world, all while training for a fencing competition. Powerful and emotionally gripping, Black Brother, Black Brother is a careful examination of the school-to-prison pipeline and follows one boy’s fight against racism and his empowering path to find his voice.”
Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi
“Tomi Adeyemi conjures a stunning world of dark magic and danger in her West African-inspired fantasy debut, perfect for fans of Leigh Bardugo and Sabaa Tahir. The book follows heroine Zélie Adebola as she attempts to restore magic to the kingdom of Orïsha, following the ruling class kosidáns' brutal suppression of the class of magic practitioners Zélie belongs to, the maji.”
You can check out the recommended books from St. Mark's school library here: https://stmarksschool-ma.libguides.com/c.php?g=1215424&p=8890192
Works Cited
“Black History Month.” History.com, A&E Television Networks, 14 Jan. 2010, https://www.history.com/topics/black-history/black-history-month.
“Celebrating Black History Month.” LibGuides, https://stmarksschool-ma.libguides.com/c.php?g=1215424&p=8890192.