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Here's a list of top resources that will educate, inspire, and broaden your perspective on black history

As we celebrate Black History Month, it's important to recognise the richness and diversity of Black culture, achievements, and contributions throughout history.

Learning about black history no longer requires sitting with a textbook. There are so many ways to educate ourselves today, from watching a Netflix series to listening to a podcast on the go. To help you get started, we've curated a list of top recommendations that will educate, inspire, and broaden your perspective.

Books

  1. "Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents" by Isabel Wilkerson- An exploration of the caste system in America and its implications on race and identity.

  2. "Why I'm No Longer Talking to White People About Race" by Reni Eddo-Lodge- A thought-provoking analysis of race relations in the UK.

  3. "The Color Purple" by Alice Walker- A classic novel that explores themes of race, gender, and resilience in America.

  4. "Black and British: A Forgotten History" by David Olusoga- A comprehensive history of Black people in Britain and their contributions.

  5. "Just As I Am" by Cicely Tyson- An autobiography detailing the life and career of the legendary actress and civil rights advocate.

Films & Documentaries

  1. "13th" (Netflix)- A documentary exploring the intersection of race, justice, and mass incarceration in the U.S.

  2. "I Am Not Your Negro"- Based on James Baldwin's unfinished manuscript, this film discusses race relations in America.

  3. "Small Axe" (BBC/Amazon Prime)- A collection of five films directed by Steve McQueen, exploring the lives of West Indian immigrants in the UK.

  4. "The Black Panthers: Vanguard of the Revolution"- A documentary chronicling the rise and fall of the Black Panther Party in America.

  5. "Rocks" (Netflix)- A British coming-of-age film that highlights the struggles of a Black teenage girl in London.

Podcasts

  1. "1619"- A New York Times series that examines the history and legacy of slavery in America.

  2. "Black History Year"- A podcast dedicated to celebrating Black history and culture, featuring various guests and topics.

  3. "The History of Philosophy Without Any Gaps: African Philosophy"- A deep dive into African philosophy and thinkers, contextualizing their contributions.

  4. "No Country for Young Women"- A podcast that discusses race, identity, and the experiences of Black women in the UK.

  5. "The Receipts Podcast"- A lively discussion on culture, race, and societal issues hosted by three Black women.

Online Resources

  1. UK Black History Month Website- Offers a variety ofresources, events, and educational materials related to Black history in the UK.

  2. The African American History and Culture Museum (Smithsonian)- Online resources and exhibits exploring African American history.

  3. BBC Bitesize: Black History- Educational resourcesfor students covering key events and figures in Black history.

  4. National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC)- Offers digital collections and educational resources focusing on Black history and culture.

Articles & Journals

  1. “What the U.S. Can Learn From Britain’s Race Relations” (The Atlantic)- An insightful article comparing race relations in the UK and the US.

  2. "The Impact of Racism on Mental Health: A Review"- A journal article examining the psychological effects of racism and discrimination.

  3. “The Role of Black Women in the Civil Rights Movement”- An academic article discussing the contributions of Black women in the fight for civil rights.