JUSTNotes

In this Pride Month of 2023, marking another milestone seems just as important as continuing the ongoing struggle for full inclusion and equity for people who identify as LGBTQ+.

I love Juneteenth. While it has long been embraced by the Black citizens of Texas, and parts of Oklahoma since its inception in 1865, much of the nation had no knowledge of it. But like many aspects of life in America, the seed of its existence, was well rooted in the nation and in the last 20 years has blossomed in our consciousness.

American music is Black music. In spite of consistent efforts to underrate, steal both form and music, and keep Black performers from the same recognition, prominence, and acceptance as white musicians, Black music has always created the newest trends in American music.

The west's capitalistic structure and wealth is built on the backs of stolen and enslaved Africans. In this world dark bodies are used, abused, disregard and left to suffer. To Rest in this world is to choose to resist the pull towards norms of capitalism, patriarchy and systems of oppression.

February is Black History Month. With all the waking up in American society, one might wonder if Black History Month is of any real relevance today. Without question, it is just as relative now as it ever was, maybe even more so.

In this BHM 2023, with all the “awake-ness” in America, I keep wondering what will it take for me to feel free. There are few people and fewer places where I feel like I can speak my truth without having to defend it or justify my desire for liberation.

When I reflect on Black History Month, I cannot help but reflect on my trip to Alabama with CWACM. The journey to Alabama gave me an opportunity to reconnect with my history that has been far too long silenced by those who do not want us to remember.