Notjustamonth draft02

Anthony I am a history major with a minor in adolescence education. I am Jamaican and currently reside in Queens, New York. ·​​Being Black is something that is special and sacred. The beauty of being Black has been challenged, rewritten, and falsified for hundreds of years.

However, African Americans and other people within the African diaspora have reclaimed Black culture and made significant strides to preserving our rich history. I love being Black and I will always cherish the color of my skin. I will never let anyone degrade me because I am Black, rather I will make sure that they acknowledge my presence and uniqueness as a Black man. ·​​Everyone who is Black and of African ancestry should embrace their Blackness. How could you not? The history of our people has shown that they were great intellectuals, builders, spokesmen, and spokeswomen. Look at how our early African Kings and Queens predicated themselves of spirituality and innovation. From the creation of pyramids to the foundation of mathematical principles, Black Africans have done nothing but flourish and provide new opportunities for various societies and civilizations.

Tragically, African culture was silenced and challenged for many years by wealthy and curious Europeans. Their religious, racial, and intellectual beliefs and philosophies led to years of turmoil where the world witnessed the colonization, persecution, slaughter, and enslavement of my African people. Since then we have made numerous strides and persevered through those harsh realities of a darkened past. Black people, both men and women, have become successful individuals and have reached goals our ancestors never dreamt possible. It would be a disservice and would bring great shame to my people if I did not celebrate being Black every day I wake up.​B ​ lack Love is a deep connected relationship between Black people. That can be an intimate relationship between two or more Black individuals, or can be as relaxed as a common friendship. Just acknowledging that you love and respect the next individual just on the basis that they are Black is what Black Love truly represents. Currently, my deepest connection to Black Love is my relationship with my girlfriend, Kara. I like to refer to her as my Queen, my soulmate, and my best friend.

Sometimes she may catch me calling her my little bear. But that truly is my love. She is always there when I need her and never disappears when any crisis occurs. She motivates me, is stern with me, and always makes sure that I am performing to the best of my ability in everything that I do. My Queen supports my dreams and aspirations and has helped me reach those goals since they moment I met her. That alone is Black love. Loving and respecting each other for who they are, all while helping them prosper and be a better individual. We certainly are not perfect and we have had our ups and downs, but there is no one that I rather learn from than my Queen.