From enslavement to Jim Crow on into the New Jim Crow, a common trend persists: each era attempted to squeeze every ounce of humanity from Black people. One of the most potent tactics used to control us? Systemically keeping love - for ourselves and each other - out of our reach.
Using “Black codes” and laws to legally objectify us, and treat us as mere tools to bolster white supremacy and economics, was the go-to way to smother love. Families were separated in slavery. Marriage was a right frequently denied well into the Jim Crow era. And today, Black men are incarcerated at inequitable rates.
Physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, oftentimes ending in death, has long been the consequence of attempting to unify and love one another.
But something amazing happened. Despite facing a perfect storm intended to generate loathing of ourselves and each other, Black people found the courage and strength to love.
Today, hashtags like #BlackLove and #RelationshipGoals light up social media. Images are everywhere of Black people loving each other. So even though America tried its hardest to prevent Black Love, we loved each other anyway. In doing so, we reclaim our personhood and bolster Black empowerment and unity.