Published: February 22, 2021
As an intentionally diverse firm committed to racial and social justice, we’re lucky to work with clients who fight every day to empower historically disenfranchised communities. But the fight for justice also needs fuel. And for many of us, art is that fuel. Before we say goodbye to Black History Month 2021, we took some time to reflect on the words and works of Black artists who have inspired us.
A few of our favorite must-reads – fiction, non-fiction and poetry – about the Black experience in America:
Kicking off our list of celebrated authors who elevate us all is the thrilling Amanda Gorman, first Youth Poet Laureate of the United States,” who recited her original poem “The Hill We Climb” at the inauguration ceremony of President Joe Biden.
The Black Friend: On Being a Better White Person
Frederick Joseph
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Available via Tattered Cover here.
The Sum of Us: What Racism Costs Everyone and How We Can Prosper Together
Heather McGhee
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Available via Tattered Cover here.
A few American plays have been available to stream from home that capture the Black American experience. While nothing replaces live theatre, these scripts and theatrical experiences transport the viewer to new paradigms:
American Son
Starring: Kerry Washington, Steven Pasquale, Jeremy Jordan
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Available via Netflix here.
Fences
Starring: Denzel Washington, Viola Davis, Stephen McKinley Henderson
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Available via Amazon here.
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Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom
Starring: Viola Davis, Chadwick Boseman, Glynn Turman
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Available via Netflix here.
Also, for a transformative experience, you can listen to “Amazing Grace,” Aretha Franklin’s historic gospel performance at New Temple Missionary Baptist Church in Los Angeles, or watch the documentary about the performance.
One of us put together a playlist of some favorite albums by Black musicians:
Finally, for our kids and their education, we love the book series “You Should Meet.” The entire series features people of color and activists working to create the world we dream of our children.
Thanks for checking out some of our favorite works, and thank you to the countless Black artists who’ve shared their voices and offered hope, courage, conviction, empathy, joy, and wisdom to so many.
