Happy Black History Month!
If you’re like me, you don’t need the first of February to arrive in order to shout the James Brown 1968 tune, “Say it Loud– I’m Black and I’m Proud,” or acknowledge the influence of African American artists on society. However, in joining the nationwide celebration of Black history and culture, The Washington Informer will use each week of February to highlight Black arts and honor African American creatives’ contribution to arts and culture worldwide.
This year, the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH), the creators of Black History Month, is focusing on “African Americans and the Arts,” for its 2024 theme.
Through interviews with local artists, historians and research, Washington Informer reporters will explore how African American artists have historically contributed to the arts and American culture as a whole.
The influence of Black creativity can be seen at the core of American arts and culture— even politics. Historically, Black artists have proven to be the pulse that keeps the heart of America beating.
From the performing arts such as music, theatre, and dance, to visual arts, and literature, The Washington Informer will relay stories that reveal how Black art was not solely used as a source of entertainment, but a form of protest, power and a means of promoting peace and revolution.
Even as white artists stole and capitalized off of African American artists, the power of Black art prevailed. Black artists, through the creation of musical genres, artistic styles, fashion trends, and creative movements, have proven over centuries the strength, resilience, beauty and boldness of Black artistry.
This first week of February, we dive into the deep history of Black artists and their contributions to the fabric of this country and examine how African American creatives continue to influence culture today. Under this week’s subtheme, “And the Award Goes to,” this week, The Informer is particularly highlighting, award-winning, trailblazing Black artists.
Although African American history is important 365 days a year, tap into celebrating the greatness of Black artists this February. Dive into the history of some of your favorite African American artists and artivists (artist activists), learn from and be inspired by them, and honor their legacies by furthering their mission toward a stronger nation and world.
