This Black History Month, We Declare: We, Too, Are America [View all]

America would not be what it is without the contributions of black people.



That’s why, this year, Black Voices is commemorating Black History Month by adopting and adapting Hughes’ message to declare:

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Over the last week, immigrants across America have spoken out against Trump by using hashtags like #NoBanNoWall and #ImAlreadyHome. Coincidentally, the hashtag #WeTooAreAmerica has also been used previously as part to tell immigrants’ stories ― a mission slightly different than ours.


Over the next month, Black Voices will use the hashtag to instill hope by highlighting the history of black trailblazers like Hughes. We will share the stories of legendary and little-known black men and women to spread inspiration at a time we need it most. We will recognize current-day black trailblazers in all types of industries and fields. We will highlight black heroes who embraced inclusivity and solidarity in their movements. We will show images of black people engaging in acts of love to fight back against hate. We will promote pieces that highlight the diversity among black people to honor the many ways in which we identify. We will disseminate self-care tips to encourage communities to prioritize mental and physical health. And, among other things, we will resurrect stories of resistance that remind us all that if these men and women ― armed with little protection and resounding might ― had the courage to overcome adversity, so do we.


In reflecting on our past, we will also use these lessons to help us paint a clearer vision for what lies ahead. For the third year in a row, Black Voices is teaming up with the Black Lives Matter network to bring back our “Black Future Month” blog series by inviting 28 black writers to explore issues that affect the black community and identify ways to make progress in these areas going forward. Each piece will also be accompanied by powerful artwork created by 28 different black artists.

At Black Voices, we understand both the burden and beauty of blackness — and we are committed to telling stories that explore all the complexities of our identity and culture. We invite you to follow along on Facebook and Twitter as we amplify the stories we believe deserve to be told, now more than ever, and give praise to the power among our people.


Read More: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/this-black-history-month-we-declare-we-too-are-america_us_588fa515e4b0c90efeff4088

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Powerful.