This Black History Month, we are grateful to explore Black history on our inaugural ‘Legacy Lens’ series. By honoring the legacies of our ancestors, we discovered the weight of our community’s contributions locally in the Central District and beyond, from music and film to education, and grassroots activism. We have reaffirmed that Black history is not only American history, but also critical to understanding the true path to lasting liberation for all marginalized communities globally. 

It has been an honor to interview individuals who have contributed to Black culture and history in this series, including Elmer Dixon, Gary Hammon, Aaron Chapman, and Conscious Lee. Black history has been the subject of erasure and heightened scrutiny as democracy experiences seismic rifts steeped in white supremacy and the vilification of our people’s passion for justice. It’s imperative that we share these stories and pass them down so they don’t get lost through generations. 

The education system frequently gives us a watered-down version of Black history and minimizes our contributions. Many states have already banned and restricted books on Black history. We have always been here and are determined to remind others that our history will not be forgotten. 

Listen to ‘Legacy Lens’ this Black History month to pay homage to Black leaders both past and present. Our first episode is set to release on Friday, February 6th, at 7:00 AM PST!