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Do you want to be free? Harriet Tubman and the Rise of Many Messiahs

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8 months ago

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Harriet Tubman, faith and spirituality, Women

“I see a line in my head. Above this line I see green fields, beautiful flowers and beautiful white women with their arms stretched out to me above this line, but there is no way I can get there. I don’t think I can cross that line.” Viola Davis quoted this sentiment from Harriet Tubman in her riveting 2015 Emmy acceptance speech, adding, “Let me tell you something: the only thing that separates women of color from anyone else is opportunity.”

A photograph of runaway slave, abolitionist and Union spy Harriet Tubman obtained by the Smithsonian was displayed before a House Committee on Administration hearing in June 2015 at the Longworth House Office Building on Capitol Hill in Washington. (Photo: Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

When we take into consideration each Harriet Tubman Day (March 10) i National Equal Pay Day (March 12) As we proceed to rejoice Women’s History Month, Tubman’s life and words remind us of the distinct experiences women of African descent have when it comes to accessing opportunities which can be often afforded to non-Black women.

One of the most recognizable symbols of liberation in U.S. history, the extraordinary contribution to our heritage of Harriet Tubman (1822–1913) continues to resonate with all of us, largely because of her intersectional identity as a black woman. Her narrative, affectionately called “Black Moses,” is a black messiah tale of a savior who continues to captivate people near and far: she was an Underground Railroad conductor, a spiritual sage, an abolitionist, a spy, a clairvoyant, a nurse and an astrologer. Tubman possessed unique qualities that liberated countless people, including over 700 kidnapped ancestors reportedly free of slavery during the Combahee River Raid. We could imagine such a messiah today – and not necessarily a person possessing these characteristics, but many of us who possess the specific characteristics needed to develop into a collective messiah.

Harriet Tubman’s courageous efforts inspired so many. What higher way to reflect on her life, words and courage than to embrace our beautiful Black power in liberating ourselves in every sphere of society; produce from amongst us not one, but many messiahs?

Harriet Tubman, Underground Railroad, Women's History Month, faith and spirituality, Christianity, theGrio.com
Harriett Tubman National Historical Park. Photo: Getty Images

There is ample evidence that Tubman continues to capture our imaginations, inspiring us to rise to the challenge in our areas of influence. Tubman’s various contributions to society have been portrayed on film and television by, amongst others: Cynthia Erivo in the biopic “Harriet” and Aisha Hinds in the TV series “Underground.” Beyond the silver screen, television and literature, we also discover a soundscape Winner of Nkeiru Okoye’s Guggenheim Award an opera, “Harriet Tubman: When I Crossed That Line,” revealing not only the impact of her mind and power, but in addition a deep insight into Tubman’s messianic role in the fight for freedom and her humanity amid an otherwise harrowing legend. In the enveloping melody of the aria “I am Moses the Deliverer” we discover a musical celebration of black womanhood and resilience, difficult stereotypes and amplifying disinherited black voices.

Indeed, creating freedom requires each resistance and creativity.

So what can we deal with today when it comes to liberation? Our ancestors warned that we must look inside ourselves while being mindful of how our freedoms can displace or bypass others. They called for our liberation from oppressive systems that privilege resource extraction and loss of life, as we see in Gaza and Congo. They insist on our faith: Do we imagine we are able to free ourselves from the high rates of infant and maternal mortality amongst Black women by uplifting the justice warriors constructing the framework to address these disparities?

In this and many other cases: “Do you want to be free?” is a fundamental query brought to the fore by a life like Harriet Tubman, who also reminds us that after we do liberatory work in solidarity with marginalized communities, it must be done with the consent of those we stand for.

However, sometimes we face oppression because we prefer to stick to the way things have all the time been and stick to what is understood. We cannot assume that everybody wants change or confrontation with the agents of power and oppression. There are those that feel comfortable in the system in the event that they have a title, exemption from direct oppression, or a presumed position of privilege amongst the oppressed – but can there ever be an enduring position of privilege when the caste system is designed to exclude and marginalize anyone outside the dominant culture?

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Let’s not get distracted if we discover ourselves in the group of those that care about the established order. Rather, seek comfort in those whom it could take little effort to persuade; who understand that although the path to the promised land may not be easy, it’s price moving forward for ourselves, our ancestors and – most significantly – our youngsters.

“Truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the same works that I have done, and even greater works.” John 14:12.

We imagine that Harriet Tubman is repeating the same words of her Christ: “You will do the same works that I have done, and even greater works, because of who and what you believe in.”

As we honor Tubman’s legacy during Women’s History Month and beyond, may “I am Moses the Deliverer” be your topic. Remember the words of Dr. Delores Williams and understand that “the oppressed of the oppressed” have a voice. It is our responsibility to be certain that their voices are heard loud and clear. Even in the midst of all the challenges, these reflections – and the reflections of the many ladies who’ve called us to liberation – lead us to proceed the timeless legacy of Black Moses – the messiah – who ushers us right into a recent dimension.

To rejoice Women’s History Month and women in all places, we embark on a journey that traverses the wealthy tapestry of black faith, resilience and activism. Together, allow us to proceed on a journey of empowerment and liberation, inspired by the enduring legacy of Harriet Tubman and countless other Black women who paved the way for generations to come.

The Rev. Dr. Alisha Lola Jones is a faith leader helping people navigate a dynamic world, as a consultant to various arts and faith-based organizations, and as Professor of Music in Contemporary Societies at the University of Cambridge in Cambridge, England. She is an award-winning creator (Oxford University Press). For more information please visit DrAlisha.com.

Rev. Calvin Taylor Skinner is committed to strengthening frontline communities in Knoxville, Tennessee and the UK. He uses faith and politics to address energy justice, criminal justice reform, voter education/mobilization, electoral politics, and global issues. He and his wife, Reverend Dr. Alisha Lola Jones, run InSight Initiative, a consulting firm focused on capability constructing and live event production.


This article was originally published on : thegrio.com
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Lifestyle

Keke Palmer Recalls the Key Advice Will Smith Gave Her as a Child: “It’s Hard to Be First”

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7 hours ago

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November 21, 2024

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Keke Palmer, Keke Palmer Will Smith, Keke Palmer emancipation, keke palmer parents, Is Keke Palmer emancipated? theGrio.com

Like many young people, actress Keke Palmer went through a phase wherein she clashed along with her parents. Recently in a performance at “Toast” podcast.Palmer revealed that fellow actor Will Smith helped her take care of the situation along with her family.

As a child star who has appeared on Nickelodeon and Disney productions, the “Akeelah and the Bee” actress explained how juggling fame has affected her and her family relationships — a lot in order that she admits she once considered emancipating herself from her parents.

Although her lawyer tried to get her into counseling, Palmer said it was Smith’s words that ultimately modified her mind.

“A couple of weeks go by, I’m on the set of ‘True Jackson, Vice President’ and I get a call from a very, very unknown number. And I said, “What? If it was strange, I would not answer,” she said, mentioning that she simply went back to work. Later, while retrieving her phone, Palmer received a voicemail from the “Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” star.

“Hey Keke. This is Will. We’re here filming ‘The Karate Kid’ with (my son) Jaden and I just want to let you understand that I’ve talked (to your lawyer),’ Palmer continued, impersonating Smith. “He let me know every little thing you are going through and I need you to know that sometimes it’s hard to be the first, but you may do it. Just stay focused, love your loved ones and every little thing shall be high-quality.

Palmer remembers struggling as a child with the attention and fame that got here with climbing the ladder in the entertainment industry. While trying to adjust to the demands of her burgeoning profession, the actress recalls feeling that fame meant she would have to “throw (her) family away.”

“It’s something that happens when you leave and you can become a child artist, you can be the first person in your family to go to college, or you can be the first person in your family to get married,” Palmer said: explaining her feelings at that moment. “There are so many firsts that can happen as the generations of your family grow and evolve.”

Keke Palmer is reclaiming the “narrative” surrounding his relationship with ex Darius Jackson

Ultimately deciding not to undergo the emancipation process, Palmer emphasized the importance of getting a healthy community when navigating the entertainment industry.

“I think I’ve always felt like a lot of people, whether they’re big names or whether they’re my lawyers, have been a good community,” she added. “Also, my parents made sure I was around (people) who would encourage community rather than discord and separation.”

This article was originally published on : thegrio.com
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Issa Rae will be honored at the British Fashion Awards 2024

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15 hours ago

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November 20, 2024

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Issa Rae, The Fashion Awards, Pandora Leader of Change award, award season, theGrio.com

Issa Rae gets flowers – in style.

The 39-year-old author, actress and producer will receive the Pandora Leader of Change award at the upcoming British Fashion Awards 2024, which will happen on December 2 at London’s Royal Albert Hall, the British Fashion Council announced.

Actress and former “Insecure” co-star Yvonne Orji will present the award to Rae at the event, which serves as a significant fundraiser for the council’s foundation, in keeping with Women’s on a regular basis clothing.

“We are thrilled to honor Issa Rae with the Pandora Leader of Change Award at the Fashion Awards 2024,” Caroline Rush, chief executive of the British Fashion Council, shared in an announcement.

“Rae’s work has inspired and resonated with people around the world. “She is a staunch supporter of the civil and women’s rights movements, always advocating for equality and social justice in her acting and writing,” Rush continued. “She consistently uses her platform to highlight the lack of diversity in Hollywood and advocate for greater representation in the industry, including meeting people of color behind the scenes.”

She added: “She is wholeheartedly committed to moving the conversation forward and galvanizing voices that are typically absent and underrepresented to open doors for others. She truly embodies the principles of this award and we are very excited to celebrate her in December.”

According to the British Fashion Council website, the Pandora Leader of Change award recognizes individuals who “lead innovation” to extend representation in arts and culture. Rae will be the second-ever recipient of this award. According to official details about the award, one other actress and author Michaela Coel was honored in 2023 Elle Magazine.

Viola Davis will be honored with the Cecil B. DeMille Award at the 2025 Golden Globes

“Issa Rae truly embodies the spirit of the Pandora Leader of Change award,” Berta de Pablos-Barbier, Pandora chief marketing officer, said in the release. “In this second year of presenting this award, we are (honored) to celebrate a woman whose love for her craft and community shines through in each multi-dimensional character she brings to life.”

Pablo-Barbier added: “Her passion and purpose make her a natural candidate for this award, which fits perfectly with our values ​​at Pandora, where love is always at the center. Issa’s commitment to meaningful change and uplifting others makes her an extraordinary change leader, and we are proud to honor her.”

This article was originally published on : thegrio.com
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Lifestyle

10 hip-hop books for national hip-hop month

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23 hours ago

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November 20, 2024

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Hip-Hop books, national Hiphop month

We still shout “Happy Birthday” to Hip-Hop! She turned 50 on August 11, 2023. Hip-hop culture has modified the lives of many individuals since its birth. The evolution of hip-hop included art, DJing, dance, fashion, hair, jewelry, language, lyrics, music and, guess what else – literature… books.

BLACK ENTERPRISES congratulates hip-hop books on their penetration of the literary space. Here are 10 books by hip-hop artists that tell their stories and share perspectives that cannot be heard through music.

1.) From pieces to weight: : Once upon a time in Southside Queens

This is a memoir, written by Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson with Kris Ex is the story of how 50 Cent handled a difficult childhood in his youth: coping with the murder of his mother; hustling the streets to survive; get shot nine times and live the American dream.

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2.) Wu-Tang Manual

Wu-Tang Manual Robert Diggs, otherwise often known as RZA, and Chris Norris. consists of 4 books that describe all the things related to the Wu-Tang Clan – from information concerning the nine original members, Wu-Slang, in addition to the philosophies and personalities that made the Wu-Tang Clan what it’s. If you’re inquisitive about Wu culture, this book is for you.

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3.) Sweat The Technique: Revelations on creativity from a lyrical genius

Rakim Allah The book is half a memoir and the opposite half is a guide to writing. In this book, he details who and what influenced him in his youth (jazz and John Coltrane), while highlighting the explanation why he is named an MC god.

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4.) Hurricanes

Rick Ross AND Neil Martinez-Belkin wrote this memoir about Ross’s upbringing in South Beach Miami in the course of the War on Drugs, which covers his time as a highschool football player, a drug hustler, and a corrections officer. Ross describes the creation of his debut hit “Hustlin'” and landing a serious take care of Def Jam. Through this reading, you’ll find out about Rick Ross’s experiences and inspirations

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5.) Decrypted

Decryptedwritten by rap icon and business mogul Shawn Corey Carter (commonly often known as Jay-Z,) is a one-of-a-kind memoir that shows the worlds that Jay-Z maneuvered. Beyoncé’s second half tells his story, highlighting the hip-hop art form and culture, deconstructing the lyrics of his lyrics, and giving readers a deeper dive into his journey as an artist.

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6.) EARL DMX Autobiography

until late Earl Simmons AND Smoky D. Fontaine, shares X’s upbringing on the streets of Yonkers, New York. Readers will learn tips on how to do that DMX he has overcome problems with neglect, physical abuse, drug abuse and incarceration. The book reveals that DMX never gave up on his dreams, found his passion for hip-hop and let the no go. 1 album 4 times in a row. Story X literally shows that for those who slip and fall, you possibly can still stand up.

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7.)

Torrence Hatch Jr., controversial rapper often known as Boosie Badazzgives readers the small print of growing up in Baton Rouge, becoming a neighborhood star at age 14, and becoming one of the crucial outstanding rappers within the South. Boosie tells the story of survival, gaining a second probability at life and overcoming adversity after facing death row and eventually gaining freedom.

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8.)

er is a rap story written by Taliban, really who shares his upbringing in Brooklyn, New York. Kweli writes about what hip-hop has done for his life and the way culture influences his social, political and inventive life.

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9.)

was written with assistance from Neil Martinez-Belkin. Gucci Mane began writing this story while locked up in a federal prison. Gucci highlights the ups and downs of his life and profession, and recalls growing up in poverty, abandoning his father, spending time in prison and the way all of it shaped him. He talks a bit concerning the infamous ice cream tattoo and the way his profession has evolved over time.

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10.)

Dana Owens, our beloved Queen Latifahshe wrote an autobiography that’s an inspiration for women. Queen Latifah details growing up in Newark, New Jersey and the difficult decisions she needed to make regarding sex, drugs and depression. The award-winning hip-hop artist shares what it means to be confident and independent, and what life is like as the primary solo rap artist to land a serious record deal on the age of 19.

SHOP HERE


This article was originally published on : www.blackenterprise.com
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