Seriously, go read an article by a black writer.
It has been a busy week for Hi, Phylecia! I wrote about Hattie McDaniel’s storied past, posted a quick primer on the history of Juneteenth, and started a newsletter. I even set up a Ko-Fi page to raise funds for the next set of comics.
After all that hard work, it’s safe to say I need to take a short breather. So, let’s kick back, relax, and read this week’s list of articles by black writers.
Articles to Read This Week
“Juneteenth And National New Beginnings,” by Dr. Tera W. Hunter (Essence Magazine)
“Juneteenth has always been a reminder about the larger meaning of the Civil War, the democratic promise of Reconstruction that was cut short in the aftermath, and the reinforcement of democratic values, however circumscribed. “
Read Dr. Hunter’s article on the historical significance of Juneteenth.
“The Story of Katie Darling and the Complex Jubilation of Juneteenth,” by Lindsey Norward (Jezebel)
“Outside the city of Marshall, Katie Darling, 16, would remain on the plantation where she was born into slavery for several more years; her white mistress refused to let her leave until some freed people in Darling’s community organized to secure her freedom. Her story, among others, raised the question for me: how long will freedom for Black people be deferred? A resilient memory in history, Juneteenth is not just a celebration of freedom, but also a reminder of the fight that continues in gaining it.”
Learn about Katie Darling’s complicated life story in this thought-provoking article.
“This Black Linguist Shares How Moving Abroad And Learning New Languages Transformed Her Life For The Better,” by Liane Membis (Bauce Magazine)
“The language learning community has a white male face, which is astounding to me, considering that Africa is the most linguistically diverse continent on this earth. Based on that alone, it would make sense for the face of the language learning community to be black.”
Liane Membis’s interview with the creator of Black Girls Learn Languages, Shahidah Foster on Bauce Magazine is truly inspiring.
“Finding Love in My Features,” by Jenelle Parrish (CRWN Magazine)
“My nose is my legacy, one I'm incredibly proud of. It would be a shame to let that be in vain.”
Jenelle Parrish wrote an incredible story about learning to love her physical features.
"Uncle Phil From ‘the Fresh Prince Of Bel-air’ May Be The Best Tv Dad In History — This Scene Proves It,” by Justin Tinsley (The Undefeated)
“The love, respect and adoration Uncle Phil exhibited and commanded universally appealed to the most innate human desire: to be loved and protected. And in this scene, an older black man was comforting a younger black man during a time of irreconcilable grief and heartbreak. Rare for television, for mainstream media. Rare.”
Justin Tinsley’s poignant analysis on America’s favorite black uncle may make you cry or inspire you to call your dad.
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