Historically Black people have engaged in acts of self-liberation and resistance in many forms. From escaping slavery to protesting police brutality, and trailblazing in the arts and sciences, Black resistance strategies have been a model for social movements globally.
In honor of Black History Month and the Association for the Study of African American Life and History’s 2023 theme of Black resistance, we asked KIPP Foundation staff to share a passage or book that represents what Black resistance means to them. Check out their reflections below and dive deeper into the work of the writers featured.
1. Bulaong Ramiz – Won’t You Celebrate Me – Lucille Clifton
2. Emma Lind-Martinez – Brilliance of Black Children in Mathematics by Jacqueline Leonard and Danny B. Martin
3. Benny Vásquez – Sister Outsider by Audre Lorde
4. Faatimah Sanoe – The Proudest Blue: A Story of Hijab and Family by Ibtihaj Muhammad, S.K. Ali
5. Nadera Keita – Black Women Will Save the World: An Anthem by April Ryan
6. Alexus March – Black Girl, Call Home by Jasmine Mans
7. Pam Moeller – B is For Black Brilliance by Shawna Wells
8. Jamelfrey Pacheco – Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston
