As Black History Month concludes today, many reflect on the U.S.’s complex history with the Black community. Outside of ongoing battles regarding concepts like critical race theory in education, many Black celebrities and social media creators took this month to honor and commemorate moments of success and joy.
Today, actress Keke Palmer and boyfriend Darius Jackson welcomed their first child together. Their son is named Leodis Andrellton Jackson, and they’ve nicknamed him Leo. Palmer first revealed her pregnancy on live television during a Saturday Night Live sketch, and today shared a sweet photo of her son on Instagram.
Keke Palmer welcomes her son, Leodis Andrellton Jackson, to the world: "Born during Black History Month, with a name to match!" pic.twitter.com/dITq4kSEze
— philip lewis (@Phil_Lewis_) February 27, 2023
Earlier this month, Beyoncé became the most decorated Grammy winner of all time with her 2023 wins for dance/electronic recording, dance/electronic album, R&B performance and R&B song. All were for her massively successful album Renaissance, which honors the Black LGBTQ+ people who were essential in the creation of house music. Beyoncé has spoken about how her late uncle inspired much of the album.
@rumlchella The most Grammy Awarded Artist in HISTORY! Congrats! ???????????? #Beyoncé #Renaissance #GRAMMYs #grammys2023 #Beyonce #albumoftheyear #rumlchella #romantherharujukubarbie
Former First Lady Michelle Obama posted a tribute to Black women artists, namely a few who drew up their own creations inspired by her latest book, The Light We Carry.
For #BlackHistoryMonth, I wanted to share the work of three talented artists – Esther, Melarie, Rachel – who shared the art they made after reading #TheLightWeCarry. I love these! pic.twitter.com/KuFiIi5diK
— Michelle Obama (@MichelleObama) February 27, 2023
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Proud parents also showcased their children’s art across social media.
https://twitter.com/garet39/status/1630626524108816384?s=20
Throughout this month, TikTok creators got imaginative in honoring Black history, and showcasing humorous moments of Black joy. One trend involved Black students being jokingly pampered by their white friends and classmates at school.
@liya.marie as he should #blackhistorymonth #fyp
TikTok creator Ellie Sunman (@elliesunmanxo) shared a video showcasing the several everyday inventions that Black people have created, from the light switch to the clothes dryer. Sunman’s simple yet effective idea got an important point across to five million viewers.
https://www.tiktok.com/@elliesunmanxo/video/7198251207763447045?_r=1&_t=8aGdvCmRmjS
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Popular TikTok creator Tabitha Brown (@iamtabithabrown) first went viral at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, for her comforting messages of hope and helpful vegan recipes. In January, Brown’s line of snacks launched at Target, and within the month of February, her popcorn was sold out at store locations across the country.
@iamtabithabrown I’m so sorry y’all, I ain’t mean to create no extra @target addictions❤️. But if it makes any difference, I’m right there with y’all????????????????. Honey if you ain’t tried it, don’t do it ????. Just walk away from the purple bag????????????. #dairyfree #garlicparmesan #popcorn #targettabcollab #tabithabrown #vegan #foodie
@itsgoldengirl3
TikTok has previously come under criticism for its algorithm allegedly “shadow banning” Black creators’ content.The phenomenon was discussed on the platform after a series of similar video ideas posted by white creators after Black creators posted them went viral over the original content. This month, despite this history of challenges, several Black creators had bright moments of success.
Aliyah (@aliyahsinterlude1) has built a platform on her signature y2k fashion looks and sense of humor. She recently walked the runway in London Fashion Week.
https://www.tiktok.com/@aliyahsinterlude1/video/7201661812176178475?_r=1&_t=8aGfTTmdHzv
Beauty and lifestyle creator Monet McMichael (@monetmcmichael) was verified on TikTok at the end of January, and was invited on several big brand trips this month, including a Tarte trip to Dubai and a Glow Recipe getaway to Wyoming.
@monetmcmichael momma we DID ITTTT!!! verified in these streets zont playy – honestly have lots to say but I just feel like this is a W for all of us – to everyone who loves and supports me and eachother – keep working hard even if u have to work harder i’m proud of u
The Biden administration concluded Black History Month with a celebration at the White House. Current Vice President Kamala Harris made history as the first woman vice president, and the first woman of color in the White House. Several young Black leaders were in attendance, and were honored at the event.
.@POTUS and I celebrated Black History Month at the White House last night.
We honored the heroes of the past, and celebrated young leaders like DuWayne who inspire our nation through their work and example today. pic.twitter.com/kHL68XfhDo
— Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) February 28, 2023
Despite being the shortest month of the year, this Black History Month was certainly one of the brightest.
