The Doors to Black History by Delchyne Similien

Black History Month is a month-long celebration that recognizes the accomplishments and impacts of African Americans throughout history. It also highlights the work of African American leaders today. Since 1926, Black History Month has reigned victoriously throughout the month of February in the United States and each year, there are newcomers making their mark and doing it ‘For the Culture’.
Black History Month 2019 is well under way and teachers across the country have taken note. They are paying homage to African American culture and heritage with decorative doors showcasing powerful images and messages. Below are several of the creative pieces:

Twitter: @killah_katt

The first image is simple yet striking because it touches upon the issue of colorism. It depicts a black woman with diamonds attached to her large curls while wearing a dashiki. The face of the woman is sectioned off into four quadrants that illustrate the different shades of the black race. The creator, Twitter user @killahkat, shared her creation on the site accompanied by the statement, “Any shade of black is beautiful!” ​

Instagram: @takachanique

The next piece by elementary art teacher, Chanique Davis, present trademarks of black culture. It displays, again, a black woman but with 3-dimensional dreads, gelled down ‘baby’ hairs and beads, all while wearing a crown. In addition, her facial features are accentuated with plump, full lips, a broad nose and bushy but tamed brows. Davis posted her highly detailed work on Instagram with captions “Tis the season! It’s Black History Month and it’s like a holiday over here at Lake Alfred.” ​

Similarly, modern-day leaders and activists, like Lady O (Oprah) and Colin Kaepernick, were honored on a door. Glen Mourning at Friendship Public Charter School in Washington DC wanted to remind others that the fight for equality and justice in America is not over, so he used Colin Kaepernick. He portrays Kaepernick famously kneeling with arms crossed in the San Francisco 49ers uniform alongside a full afro and hair-pick comb. In a statement he gave to People Magazine, he said, “The fact is, kneeling done by Kaepernick and others was viewed by many as showing love and positivity in the form of peaceful protesting and exercising our rights… We need to keep the dialogue going!”

Last but not least, charter school teacher, Jovan Bradshaw decided to take the literary route with her BHM appreciation. She found inspiration from another appreciator, Nadine Keen, but manifested her presentation with personal flare. She wrote the following quote, “Dear Students, THEY DIDN’T STEAL SLAVES … They stole scientists, doctors, architects, teachers, entrepreneurs, astronomers, fathers, mothers, sons, daughters, etc. and MADE THEM SLAVES. Sincerely, your ancestors.” 
These teachers put in the extra effort to not only capture the attention of their students but also have them realize the importance of this holiday season as they live through it. All of their efforts were not in vain, the doors have both gained national attention and inspired a BHM door competition through media giant Pinterest.

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