Tag: #JoyfulBlackSpaces

Posted in #30DaysofBlackJoy Series, Feature Spotlight

#30DaysofBlackJoy…Day 28-“Black Spaces in Movement”

Posted on by drblackfuturefeminist

Welcome back to our final Wednesday edition of #JoyfulBlackSpaces with guest blogger, Lauren N. Jackson!!

What are Black spaces? As a reminder, Black spaces are intentional spaces and environments designed to uplift and empower the Black community. These spaces bring JOY because they allow Blacks to rid themselves of the daily microaggressions, racism, and prejudices often experienced in society, and allow them to fully embrace their Blackness; their uniqueness, dialect, identity, and culture. Black spaces include spaces like higher education institutions, restaurants, churches, museums, and the like.

Today’s #BlackJoy moment we will focus on “Black Spaces in Movement”. 

“I wanted to do the kind of dance that could be done for the man on the streets, the people. I wanted to show Black people that they could come down to these concert halls. That it was part of their culture being done there. And that it was universal.” – Alvin Ailey

It’s no secret that “every genre of dance has roots in Black culture and specifically African dance. From streets in the Bronx, where DJ Kool Herc grew the popularity of HipHop, to international stages and studios, where the likes of Misty Copeland and Alvin Ailey performed ballet and modern genres, the influence of Black culture can be seen from every angle of the dance world”

Celebrating and highlighting Black spaces in movement is an important way to recognize and appreciate the contributions and creativity of the Black community. I have highlighted “Black Spaces in Movement” that continuously celebrate and uplift the contributions of the Black community in dance. These spaces provide opportunities for Black dancers to showcase their talent, receive training and mentorship, and create a supportive community. They also serve as platforms to challenge the underrepresentation of Black dancers in mainstream dance and create spaces where Black artistry is valued and celebrated.

  • The Debbie Allen Dance Academy – The Debbie Allen Dance Academy is a “501(c)3 non-profit organization that offers a comprehensive dance curriculum to students ages four and up.” The Academy, known for its Hot Chocolate Nutcracker, has offered opportunities for students, mainly those from underrepresented groups to create opportunities, provide resources, and foster an inclusive environment to excel and thrive. Learn more here and check them out on IG: @officialdadance
  • Dollhouse Dance Factory – The Dollhouse Dance Factory located in Jackson, MS, and established by Diana Williams, “promotes high self-esteem, determination, persistence, high academic achievement, community involvement and the importance of health in young women through the art of dance.” Their award-winning dance routines and participation in TLC’s hit show, “Bring It!” have brought recognition to their passionate and advanced dance skills, showcasing the excellence within the Black dance community. Visit the DDF site here and check them out on IG: @thedd4lbrand
  • HBCU Dance Teams – Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) dance teams are another important aspect of Black spaces in movement. These teams represent the spirit and tradition of HBCUs through their dance performances, embodying the excellence and artistry of the Black community. They showcase their talent at various events, competitions, and halftime shows, bringing the energy and vibrancy of Black dance to a broader audience. These groups have also built opportunities for members to build lifelong relationships through their sisterhood. 
  • Check out the following HBCU dance teams’ routines:

Feel free to check out these additional resources that bring JOY to the Black community:

By focusing on “Black Spaces in Movement,” we can acknowledge the rich history and cultural significance of dance and performance within the Black community. It is a way to honor the achievements and contributions of Black artists, dancers, and performers who have made an indelible impact on the world of entertainment.

See you all tomorrow! 

Posted in #30DaysofBlackJoy Series, Celebration, Resources

#30DaysofBlackJoy…Day 21-Joyful Black Spaces: “The Black Church”

Posted on by drblackfuturefeminist

Welcome back to another Wednesday edition of #JoyfulBlackSpaces with BFF guest blogger, Lauren N. Jackson. 

What are Black spaces? As a reminder, Black spaces are intentional spaces and environments designed to uplift and empower the Black community. These spaces bring JOY because they allow Blacks to rid themselves of the daily microaggressions, racism, and prejudices often experienced in society, and allow them to fully embrace their Blackness; their uniqueness, dialect, identity, and culture. Black spaces include spaces like higher education institutions, restaurants, churches, museums, and the like.

Today’s #BlackJoy moment we will focus on “The Black Church.”

“Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound. That saved a wretch like me.” The sweet sounds of the spiritual song, Amazing Grace, and other hymns are the staple of most Black churches in America. These hymns hold deep meaning and significance within the context of the Black church. They are not merely songs, but powerful expressions of faith, resilience, and hope. These hymns have been passed down through generations, carrying the collective experiences, struggles, and triumphs of African Americans. 

Hymns are just one aspect that shapes what the Black church is today. A closer look at history reveals that Black churches were birthed during times of oppression and adversity, and provided a sanctuary for African Americans to gather, worship, and find solace. And for at least two hours on Sunday mornings, Blacks can be free and liberated from societal ills. And today, the same rings true. “The Black Church” has been a place where individuals can express their spirituality freely, connect with a higher power, and find comfort in a community that understands their struggles; all while wearing their “Sunday Best” attire. Predominantly Black churches continue to progressively lead the charge for several causes: spirituality, activism, and leadership. 

Weekly powerful sermons by the pastor, moving songs of praise and worship by the choir, and soul-moving prayers by church leaders help to shape and deepen the spiritual growth and development of parishioners. Outside of the four walls of the church, many Black churches have been instrumental in advocating for social justice and working together to address societal issues that impact Black communities: healthcare, poverty, and education; to name a few. The Black church embodies JOY because it’s a space that offers strength, hope, belonging, resilience, and an opportunity to engage in vibrant worship, celebration, and praise!

I would like to shout out two churches that have played an integral role in my spiritual growth and development: Faith Temple Church of God in Christ (COGIC) in Wilmington, NC (my home church) and Cedar Street Baptist Church of God in Richmond, VA (my local church). Thank you to Pastor Lorenzo Edge and Dr. Anthony Michael Chandler, Sr. for your spirit-filled sermons, service to the church and community, and for creating opportunities for me to develop as a leader within and outside the church!

Want to learn more about the Black church? Check out these phenomenal documentaries and articles that highlight the historical foundations of the Black church and their relevance today:

You can also check out some of these top Gospel hits in the playlists below!

“Nothing is more powerful than the Black church experience. A good choir and a good sermon in the black church, it’s pretty hard not to be moved and be transported.” ~Barack Obama

See you all tomorrow!!

Posted in #30DaysofBlackJoy Series, Celebration, Resources

#30DaysofBlackJoy…Day 14 -Joyful Black Spaces: Family Reunions/Cookouts 

Posted on by drblackfuturefeminist

Welcome back to another Wednesday edition of #JoyfulBlackSpaces with guest blogger, Lauren N. Jackson. 

What are Black spaces? Just as a reminder, Black spaces are intentional spaces and environments designed to uplift and empower the Black community. These spaces bring JOY because they allow Blacks to rid themselves of the daily microaggressions, racism, and prejudices often experienced in society, and allows them to fully embrace their Blackness; their uniqueness, dialect, identity, and culture. Black spaces include spaces like: higher education institutions, restaurants, churches, museums and the like.

Today’s #BlackJoy moment we will focus on “Family Reunions/Cookouts.” As summer quickly approaches, Black families begin to prepare for their upcoming family reunions and cookouts. They begin sending out invitations, purchasing family reunion shirts, putting together the latest musical playlists, planning the menu, and organizing activities and games. 

Family reunions and cookouts are special times when Black families come together to celebrate their shared heritage, strengthen family bonds, and create lasting memories. These gatherings allow family members from different generations to reconnect and reminisce about the experiences and customs that have defined their family history.

During these spaces of JOY, the air is filled with enticing aromas of grilled hotdogs and hamburgers, which creates a mouthwatering ambiance. The rhythmic pulses of beloved songs drive family members of all ages to hit the dance floor (typically the grassy portions of the large family backyard) and show off their best routines, such as the electric slide, cupid shuffle, wobble, or tootsie roll. Meanwhile, the older uncles may congregate around a table engaged in a boisterous game of spades, a famous card game known for strategic gameplay and lively banter. Playing spades not only entertains but also functions as a bonding experience, strengthening camaraderie and intergenerational relationships. For others who do not know how to play Spades (like myself), we competitively engage in games like Uno, Bingo, Checkers, Sorry, and Twister; to name a few. 

While some family members are immersed in the lively atmosphere, others may seek refuge under a tree, seeking shade from the warm summer sun. Conversations and reflections take place in these shaded spaces. Relatives weave together the strands of their family history via stories, laughter, and heartfelt discussions. They reminisce about fond memories, recalling the triumphs, trials, and shared experiences that have molded their family’s journey. These spaces of JOY remind Black families how far they’ve come and the future that awaits. 

Want to try a new recipe for your upcoming cookout? Or need a playlist to start practicing your dance moves? We’ve got you covered! Check out BFF’s #BlackJoy and #BlackMusicAppreciation series playlists on Spotify, Black People’s Recipes and the Black Cookout Music Playlist 2023 created by YouTuber, Akim Deen. 

While planning your next family reunion or cookout, don’t forget to celebrate the Juneteenth holiday on Monday, June 19, 2023. Plan to engage in these and other upcoming #Juneteenth festivities the entire month of June: Celebrate Juneteenth in the Richmond Region, the Freedom Festival, and Educational Events to Celebrate Juneteenth. 

See you all tomorrow! 

Posted in Celebration, Resources

#30DaysofBlackJoy…Day 7-“Joyful Black Spaces”…Black Spaces That Bring Me Joy!! – HBCUs

Posted on by drblackfuturefeminist

Wednesdays will be dedicated to “Joyful Black Spaces” and will be highlighted by guest blogger Lauren N. Jackson. Lauren serves as the Director of First and Second Year Experiences at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), and is the founder of three initiatives to support Black women and girls; “Black Girls Study,” “Leadership Development for Women of Color,” and the “LeadHERs Mentoring Program.” Lauren is also currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Education with a concentration in Educational Leadership, Policy, and Justice from VCU. 

What are Black spaces? Black spaces are intentional spaces and environments designed to uplift and empower the Black community. These spaces bring JOY because they allow Blacks to rid themselves of the daily microaggressions, racism, and prejudices often experienced in society, and allows them to fully embrace their Blackness; their uniqueness, dialect, identity, and culture. Black spaces include spaces like: higher education institutions, restaurants, churches, museums and the like.

Today’s #BlackJoy moment we will focus on Historically Black Colleges and Universities, also known as, HBCUs. In 1838, the first HBCU, Cheyney University was established. At a time where Black education was limited at predominantly white institutions and when racial segregation and discrimination were prevalent in American society, Cheyney, like other HBCUs were founded to address this inequality and provide educational opportunities for Black students.

Since then, HBCUs have played a vital role in shaping the educational landscape for African Americans in the United States. They continue to produce scholars who make significant contributions around the world in various fields like STEM, literature, politics, sports, and arts. Prominent figures such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (Morehouse College), Booker T. Washington (Hampton University), Thurgood Marshall (Howard University), Toni Morrison (Howard University), Oprah Winfrey (Tennessee State University), Terrance J (NC A&T), and Kamala Harris (Howard University) are among the distinguished graduates of HBCUs. HBCUs serve as beacons of hope where students feel a sense of pride, identity, belonging, community, and most importantly, JOY!  

If you are interested in learning more about the 107 HBCUs, check out the following links: BlackPast, History of HBCUs-Thurgood Marshall College Fund , and HBCU First Timeline .

For all my RVA peeps a special shout-out to two of our local HBCUs – Virginia State University (Etrrick/Petersburg, VA) and Virginia Union University (Richmond, VA). I would also like to shout-out the visionary of #BlackFutureFeminist and the #30DaysofBlackJoy series, Dr. Grace D. Gipson who is a proud alumna of Clark Atlanta University (Atlanta, GA)!

Want to get more insight about HBCUs through the lens of the media? Grab some friends, a few Black-owned snacks, and watch these movies, TV shows, and documentaries. 

  • A Different World (1987)
  • School Daze (1988)
  • Drumline (2002) 
  • BET’s College Hill (2004)
  • Stomp the Yard (2007) 
  • The Great Debaters (2007)
  • Tell Them We Are Rising (2018)

See you all tomorrow!!