“I feel safe in the midst of my enemies, for the truth is all powerful and will prevail.” —Sojourner Truth
In 1976, Former President Gerald Ford made February the official month to celebrate Black history. President Ford urged American citizens to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.” Here at the UGL, we have compiled some books and movies that celebrate Black Americans and their struggles and accomplishments. For more information on Black History Month, be sure to visit the official government website.
“Staring at Zero” by Jimi Hendrix
“Starting at Zero” by Jimi Hendrix
Jimi Hendrix became an international icon after 4 years. He is known as one of the greatest guitars players there ever was. Hendrix was also known as a private person, but in this book, he is able to tell his own story.
12 years a Slave. Directed by Steve McQueen
Based on true accounts, this film recalls the story of Solomon Northup, a free man of color. He is invited to a violin performance in Washington D.C, where he is kidnapped and sold as a slave. Northup suffers years of violence, abuse, and injustice. He was held captive for nearly 12 years and was soon reunited with his family. For the complete account by Solomon Northup, be sure to check out his book.
“Army of God: Joseph Kony’s War in Central Africa” by David Axe and Tim Hamilton
“Army of God” by David Axe and Tim Hamilton
The Kony2012 campaign was one that got a lot of national attention. This raised awareness, but also controversy. War correspondent, David Axe teamed up with Tim Hamilton to publish a graphic novel that explains who Kony is and the conflict that caught the attention of people all over the country.
“Song of Soloman” by Toni Morrison
Song of Solomon by Toni Morrison
Toni Morrison, writer and winner of multiple awards brings us “Song of Solomon.” This story is about 4 generations of of black life in the United States. This story begins with Macon “Milkman” Dead III. The reader follows him from birth to adulthood. “Song of Soloman” raises questions on African-American identity and relationships with black and white members of the community.
“Zami, a new spelling of my name” by Audre Lorde
“Zami: A New Spelling of My Name” by Audre Lorde. Photo courtesy of Wikipedia
This is the 1982 autobiography of writer and poet, Audre Lorde. She is the daughter of Black West Indian parents. Growing up in Harlem, she is legally blind, but learns to read before starting school. This book details Lorde’s experiences with racism, lesbianism, and political issues.
“Dreams from my Father: A Story of Race and Inheritance” by Barack Obama
“Dreams from my Father” written by current President, Barack Obama.
In 2009, Barack Obama made history by becoming the first black President of the United States. Before the presidency, Obama was a civil rights lawyer, former editor of the Harvard Law Review, and a community organizer. This book was published in 1995, right before Barack Obama was preparing for his campaign for the Illinois Senate. This book details his life in Hawaii, Indonesia, and his time at Harvard Law School.
Be sure to also check out our “A-Z Black Biography” on the UGL’s Pinterest Page.
