In Her Words: Taylor's Perspective on Black History Month

Happy Black History Month Everyone!!!

As someone who embodies the intersection of multiple cultural identities, this month serves to remind me of the people and circumstances that have shaped our history and culture. It gives people the opportunity for open dialogue and examination about race and identity. It shines a spotlight on those who have showcased amazing resilience and significant contributions throughout history and paved the way for future generations to come. 

Growing up biracial in a predominantly white environment, I realized early on that I was different than those around me. However, as a child, the topic of race was the furthest thing on my mind. My understanding of the subject was simple: my mom was white, and my dad was black. It wasn't until I started high school that I began my journey of self-discovery regarding my identity. Through my own research and desire to learn, I began embracing my blackness like I had never done before. Opening myself to exploring more in the fields of music, literature, fashion, and movies I felt myself falling in love with my culture. Taking the time to explore the relationship between myself and my hair has now become a ritual of self-care and self-love. I thank my ancestors for passing down this curly fro.

Over the recent years, I've found activism finding a place in my life. We continue to exist in a time where intolerance persists, where the value of black people and our rich history is not universally recognized, and where some states seek to restrict the teaching of black history in schools, denying future generations the opportunity to understand the complexity of our past. So I've found that having difficult or uncomfortable conversations is not only important but imperative. 

So in honor of Black History Month, I'm hoping to share and gain more knowledge of what we can do together to get to a place of peace and justice. We can't let the sacrifices and contributions of those who came before us go down in vain. 

“The thing about black history is the truth is so much more complex than anything you could make up” 

-Henry Louis Gates