Words by Smiley Team
Launching a range of initiatives to promote Black content creators, artists and businesses, Facebook is ensuring Black people make history throughout the whole year, not just for the US Black History Month this February.
Highlighting the work of Black creatives around the US, the social media service is elevating a range of voices expressing experiences of “Blackness”. Facebook is doing so with initiatives such as a docuseries on the powerful Black movements flourishing across its platforms, a creative community championing Black culture, a miniseries showcasing Black achievement in music, and campaigns on the Facebook app to spread awareness of Black history and culture.
“Black History is written every day. It is constantly shaped by people who are living their stories out loud,” stated the networking service on its Facebook page.
“The movements created by the Black community are constantly making waves around the world. From Black creators and chefs to athletes and entrepreneurs, the highlighted figures have harnessed their purpose and passion to redefine the future.”
“Together, they are building a rich and diverse legacy that transcends time. We are inspired by their words and celebrate their stories, shared across our platforms daily.”
So far the platform has shared the experiences of several Black change-makers on its corporate Facebook page. These include the story of Ashley M., a mental health worker supporting the Black community in Seattle by offering free services run by herself along with a team of volunteer therapists.
“We should have the healthcare system see that we matter and protect us,” said Ashley. “Providers have to check their biases and understand the problems that are prevalent in our country. Because right now they are blind to it, and so they don't recognize our voice.”
Facebook also celebrated the work of Na’imah D., who supports Black pregnant women using special skills as a ‘doula’. This role involves offering companionship and guiding women through pregnancy so that they experience physical and psychological comfort, as well as helping men adjust to fatherhood.
She explained: “I truly see birth as an opportunity for healing. This baby is coming into being for the first time and that is just so instrumental in determining how they move forward. For me, it’s the way we make intergenerational change.”
To follow more experiences of Black role models in their communities, keep an eye on Facebook’s corporate page.
