learning their stories one piece of art at a time
When you know better, you do better.
The education system centered specific stories and authors that I enjoyed, but as I get older and scratch my head when I hear names, I feel like I failed. Failed at learning their stories, their work, and at the same time, I failed myself.
And by names I mean Black names— authors, poets, dancers, every beautiful Black person that graced us with their work that continue to transform us to this day. Growing up in the suburbs, I heard about a few of us but never to the depths that I would have loved to learn about. Then I got older, and felt blindsided by myself.
How could I not know these great figures? Is it a me thing? Does anyone else have gaps of Black knowledge that they are just now learning about?
And a lot of times it does feel like a solo journey. Especially as a writer that never truly studied the art of writing, poets, or writers. I did read, but never in the aspect of deeply understanding for my soul. A lot of reading was through the guise of the education system to pass a class. Some stories I connected with and others were solely for the class. I’ll admit it— I used to SparkNotes books.
Also how can you deeply connect to vampires love triangles with werewolves? I digress. But now as I consume media about Black voices that I don’t really know, I feel a hole in my soul. Like there is so much missing and instead of blaming myself or the education system, I’m going to do something about it.
So, how do I plan on doing it? I have a list! And my first Black author to get to know is Toni Morrison. I do have a few of her books and will be buying the others, watching documentaries, and as I sit and think about it… I need another notebook!
I know I have an obsession with notebooks, but this one is extremely crucial because my brain can’t remember everything, but I can get back into the student mindset and do my research, dedicating sections or chapters to each writer, poet, or activist that I am unfamiliar with.
The journey is going to be filled with tears and frustrations, but so much glory and strength from each person. This is my personal piece of work, but if this moves you to do your own then feel free!
Sometimes I feel alone in these gaps, but I can’t be the only Black person who learns about a Black figure for the first time. But what I can do is do something about it and this is where it starts. With intention, curiosity, and appreciation.