Black History 365 days a year

So we've come to the end of Black History Month - the shortest month of the year. I'm going to continue this work but I won't be doing it daily. However, I wanted to remind everyone that we should be celebrating Black history 365 days a year because Black history is American history and unless we understand our past we can't build our future together.

You can continue to follow my work on history in my podcast, Ellis Conversation, that I do with my father retired federal Magistrate Judge, Ronald Ellis, on race, law, and history.

You can follow my creative work on my new podcast Brooklyn Dad at this Linktree.

Black History 365 Days a year!

Black family, Black fatherhood, Black motherhood

Today just a tribute to Black families. Simple prompts, strong black family images.

Black Power Solarpunk

Today revisting Black Power with a couple of new variations. There are a few styles but I have to say I never get tired of Black Power Solarpunk style!

James Baldwin inspired

Going to continue to take the words of great Black Artiststs today. Today taking quotes from James Baldwin's works.

Quotes used for prompts today:

“To be a Negro in this country and to be relatively conscious is to be in a rage almost all the time.”

"Children, not yet aware that it is dangerous to look too deeply at anything, look at everything, look at each other, and draw their own conclusions"

"Love takes off the masks that we fear we cannot live without and know we cannot live within"

"Know from whence you came. If you know whence you came, there are absolutely no limitations to where you can go"

Note: Sometimes I have to add to prompt that these are the words of an African American writer to get images that are not Eurocentric.

More poetry

I felt like I could give some more space to poetry and I had some ideas on how to improve the prompts for images.

From Maya Angelou poem Equality

"Equality, and I will be free. Equality, and I will be free. Take the blinders from your vision, take the padding from your ears, and confess you've heard me crying, and admit you've seen my tears."

From Maya Angelou's poem - Life Doesn't Frighten Me

I've got a magic charm That I keep up my sleeve I can walk the ocean floor And never have to breathe.

Life doesn't frighten me at all Not at all Not at all.

Life doesn't frighten me at all.

From Amanda Gorman's poem- The Hill We Climb

We will rebuild, reconcile, and recover.

And every known nook of our nation and every corner called our country, our people diverse and beautiful, will emerge battered and beautiful.

When day comes, we step out of the shade aflame and unafraid.

The new dawn blooms as we free it.

For there is always light, if only we’re brave enough to see it.

If only we’re brave enough to be it.

From Amanda Gorman's Poem - Earthrise

Because with every dawn we carry the weight of the fate of this celestial body orbiting a star. And as heavy as that weight sounded, it doesn’t hold us down, But it keeps us grounded, steady, ready, Because an environmental movement of this size Is simply another form of an earthrise.

Man I could do this all day. I'm going to pause and post what I have.

Poetry inspired

Today I created images based on famous poetry by Langston Hughes, Maya Angelou, and Amanda Gorman

I too By Langston Hughes

I, too, sing America.

I am the darker brother.

They send me to eat in the kitchen

When company comes,

But I laugh,

And eat well,

And grow strong.

Tomorrow,

I’ll be at the table

When company comes.

Nobody’ll dare

Say to me,

“Eat in the kitchen,”

Then.

Besides,

They’ll see how beautiful I am

And be ashamed—

I, too, am America.

Dreams

BY LANGSTON HUGHES

Hold fast to dreams

For if dreams die

Life is a broken-winged bird

That cannot fly.

Hold fast to dreams

For when dreams go

Life is a barren field

Frozen with snow.

Still I Rise

BY MAYA ANGELOU

You may write me down in history

With your bitter, twisted lies,

You may trod me in the very dirt

But still, like dust, I'll rise.

Does my sassiness upset you?

Why are you beset with gloom?

’Cause I walk like I've got oil wells

Pumping in my living room.

Just like moons and like suns,

With the certainty of tides,

Just like hopes springing high,

Still I'll rise.

Did you want to see me broken?

Bowed head and lowered eyes?

Shoulders falling down like teardrops,

Weakened by my soulful cries?

Does my haughtiness offend you?

Don't you take it awful hard

’Cause I laugh like I've got gold mines

Diggin’ in my own backyard.

You may shoot me with your words,

You may cut me with your eyes,

You may kill me with your hatefulness,

But still, like air, I’ll rise.

Does my sexiness upset you?

Does it come as a surprise

That I dance like I've got diamonds

At the meeting of my thighs?

Out of the huts of history’s shame

I rise

Up from a past that’s rooted in pain

I rise

I'm a black ocean, leaping and wide,

Welling and swelling I bear in the tide.

Leaving behind nights of terror and fear

I rise

Into a daybreak that’s wondrously clear

I rise

Bringing the gifts that my ancestors gave,

I am the dream and the hope of the slave.

I rise

I rise

I rise.

Earthrise (excerpt)

By Amanda Gorman

Where despite disparities We all care to protect this world, This riddled blue marble, this little true marvel To muster the verve and the nerve To see how we can serve Our planet. You don’t need to be a politician To make it your mission to conserve, to protect, To preserve that one and only home That is ours, To use your unique power To give next generations the planet they deserve.

We are demonstrating, creating, advocating We heed this inconvenient truth, because we need to be anything but lenient With the future of our youth.

And while this is a training, in sustaining the future of our planet, There is no rehearsal. The time is Now Now Now, Because the reversal of harm, And protection of a future so universal Should be anything but controversial.

So, earth, pale blue dot We will fail you not.

Jazz

Went with simple prompts around Jazz today. My daughter plays clartinet in band so had to do a few with a young black girl experiencing and playing jazz.

Black Lives Matter

I went simple again today with Black Lives Matter prompt. I thought I was going to get caught up in content filters but things went pretty smoothly. My favorite by far is "Black Lives Matter protest in Brooklyn Solarpunk style"

Black writers I love

All this image creation has got me inspired to do a lot of writing next month! I'm also continually inspired by amazing writers of color and listening to Levar Burton reads! Anyway, going to start with some pictures inspired by my favorite writer NK Jemisin. Prompt: "an african american boy in the world of N K Jemisin"

In case you don't know her work - From Perplexity:

N.K. Jemisin is an American science fiction and fantasy writer known for her critically acclaimed novels and short stories. Some of her most famous books include:

N.K. Jemisin's works have received several awards, including the prestigious Hugo Award for three consecutive years for each of her critically acclaimed novels in the Broken Earth Trilogy[1][2][3]. She is known for her diverse themes, narrative structures, and unflinching exploration of social and political issues in her writing[4].

Citations: [1] https://www.bookscrolling.com/ranking-author-n-k-jemisins-best-books-a-bibliography-countdown/ [2] https://thefantasyreviews.com/2023/02/12/n-k-jemisin-reading-guide/ [3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/N._K._Jemisin [4] https://highonbooks.co/the-best-works-of-n-k-jemisin/ [5] https://www.reddit.com/r/Cosmere/comments/gwi249/no_spoilers_you_guys_should_read_n_k_jemisin/?rdt=34192

Ok just going to continue to explore ideas from NK Jemisin and Nnedi Okorafor

Nnedi Okorafor is a prolific writer known for her work in science fiction and fantasy. Some of her notable works include:

These works showcase Okorafor's diverse and impactful contributions to the world of literature, particularly in the genres of science fiction and fantasy[1][5].

Citations: [1] https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/42202070-broken-places-outer-spaces [2] https://www.okayafrica.com/in-conversation-nnedi-okorafor-on-venom-george-rr-martin-and-why-artists-cant-have-mentors/ [3] https://www.reddit.com/r/books/comments/nminp2/nnedi_okafors_who_fears_death_why_does_anyone/?rdt=60678 [4] https://www.africanwriter.com/the-palm-wine-bandit-a-short-story-by-nnedi-okorafor/ [5] https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/36673422

Black Astronauts

Yesterday I was at the Natural History Museum with my ten year old daughter and we saw the Space movie - - for the umpteenth time. It never gets old. So I was inspired to highlight black astronauts and black people in space.

From Perplexity:

Here are some famous black astronauts:

Robert H. Lawrence Jr.

Guion S. Bluford Jr.

Mae C. Jemison

Frederick D. Gregory

Ronald E. McNair

These astronauts have made significant contributions to space exploration and have inspired future generations with their achievements.

Citations: [1] https://www.nytimes.com/2019/07/16/us/african-american-astronauts.html [2] https://www.nasa.gov/history/honoring-black-astronauts-during-black-history-month-2023/ [3] https://www.nasa.gov/history/honoring-african-americans-in-space/ [4] https://nmaahc.si.edu/explore/stories/african-american-achievement-nasa [5] https://themarsgeneration.org/10-black-americans-who-made-extraordinary-contributions-to-space-exploration/

From Gemini:

America's Black Astronauts: Pioneering the Skies and Breaking Barriers

In the annals of African American history, the achievements of Black astronauts shine brightly. Overcoming societal barriers and racial prejudice, these individuals soared into the vast unknown, inspiring generations and proving that the pursuit of scientific exploration transcends earthly limitations. Let's celebrate some of America's most famous Black astronauts and their remarkable journeys:

Guion Bluford: In 1983, aboard the Space Shuttle Challenger, Bluford became the first Black American in space. A fighter pilot and engineer, he logged four spaceflights, conducting scientific experiments and advocating for STEM education.

Ronald McNair: A physicist and astronaut, McNair followed Bluford into space in 1984. He perished tragically in the Challenger disaster of 1986, leaving behind a legacy of scientific contributions and dedication to education.

Frederick Gregory: Pilot and astronaut Gregory made history in 1985 as the first Black American to command a Space Shuttle mission. He flew on multiple missions and advocated for diversity in the STEM fields.

Charles Bolden: An accomplished pilot and Marine Corps Major General, Bolden became the first Black astronaut to lead NASA in 2009. He served eight years, overseeing historic missions like the final Space Shuttle flights and the launch of the Orion spacecraft.

Bernard Harris: Physician and astronaut Harris holds the record for most spacewalks by a Black American, logging seven missions throughout his career. He conducted crucial medical research and served as Chief of the Astronaut Office.

Stephanie Wilson: An engineer and astronaut, Wilson became the first Black woman to command the International Space Station in 2010. She flew on three Space Shuttle missions and remains a strong advocate for science education and diversity in STEM.

Joan Higginbotham: An engineer and astronaut, Higginbotham served as a mission specialist on two Space Shuttle missions, conducting scientific experiments and demonstrating the power of women and minorities in space exploration.

Victor Glover: A pilot and astronaut, Glover made history in 2020 as the first Black person to pilot a SpaceX Crew Dragon. He commanded an International Space Station mission and continues to inspire future generations.

Further Reading:

For Middle School Students:

For High School Students:

These are just a few examples, and countless other books and resources chronicle the remarkable stories of Black astronauts. By learning about their journeys, we gain a deeper understanding of the struggles and triumphs of Black Americans in science and technology, reminding us that the pursuit of knowledge and exploration knows no bounds.

Black presidents

As a kid I never thought I'd ever see a black president. Eventhough, I was brought up by two black professionals, I knew - or thought I knew - there were certain things I couldn't do. My daughter lives in a different world. There was always a black president. She's growing up reading books about Kamala Harris. Her future has different possibilities. So today on President's day, I'm getting AI to help me imagine the past, present, and future of black men and women in the white house.

NOTE : All midjourney today as dalle3 straight up blocks using "African American President" in a prompt...

Black Doctors and the Legacy of Racism in Medicine

Before we get to the AI - go buy "Legacy: A Black Physician Reckons with Racism in Medicine" by Uche Blackstock. She's a high school classmate of mine and on a recent AI panel I was on I told people that I thought should be required reading ( The other book I made required reading were "Weapond of Math Destruction " and " Unmasking bias" ) Why should book not explicitly about AI be required reading for those involved with AI? One of the major dangers in AI is that it uses data that contains bias from our current society to predict future outputs/outcomes. So if we don't understand the racism and bias that is in medicine right now, using AI anywhere in healthcare essentially calcifies these biases behind opaque mechanical systems.

Here's what Perplexity says about the book:

"Legacy: A Black Physician Reckons with Racism in Medicine" is a memoir by Dr. Uché Blackstock, an emergency medicine physician and CEO dedicated to dismantling racism in healthcare. The book delves into the historic health care inequities and systemic racism, detailing Dr. Blackstock's family legacy of black female physicians and her own experiences as a physician and patient. It offers a searing indictment of the U.S. healthcare system, serving as a generational family memoir and a call to action. The book sheds light on the profound and long-standing systemic inequities that lead to far worse health outcomes for Black Americans and endangers the well-being of communities. It also addresses the flawed system that hampers the progress of Black patients and physicians, making it a compelling and necessary read for healthcare professionals, policymakers, and the general public[1][2][3].

Citations: [1] https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/66087028 [2] https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/a-black-physicians-memoir-looks-at-the-legacy-of-medical-racism-in-america [3] https://www.harvard.com/book/9780593491287_legacy/ [4] https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/705871/legacy-by-uche-blackstock-md/ [5] https://www.amazon.com/Legacy-Physician-Reckons-Racism-Medicine/dp/0593491289

So for today I wanted to highilight some other achievements of black doctors:

Some notable black doctors in American history include:

These doctors overcame significant challenges, including racism and prejudice, and made pioneering contributions to the field of medicine in the United States[2][3].

Citations: [1] https://www.everydayhealth.com/healthy-living/african-american-pioneers-who-changed-healthcare/ [2] https://www.aamc.org/news/celebrating-10-african-american-medical-pioneers [3] https://www.auamed.org/blog/african-american-doctors/ [4] https://guides.mclibrary.duke.edu/blackhistorymonth/chronology [5] https://interestingengineering.com/lists/black-doctors-medicine

From Gemini: Pioneering Healers: A Glimpse into the Lives and Achievements of African American Doctors

From overcoming systemic barriers to making groundbreaking contributions, African American doctors have woven a remarkable tapestry of resilience, dedication, and excellence within the annals of medicine. Their stories, etched in struggle and triumph, not only illuminate their individual journeys but also shed light on the broader fight for racial equality in the United States.

The earliest documented Black physician in America, James Durham, emerged during the tumultuous years of the Revolutionary War. Denied formal medical training due to his race, he honed his skills through apprenticeships and self-study, eventually serving Continental Army soldiers and establishing a successful practice in New Orleans. Dr. Durham's story exemplifies the resourcefulness and determination that characterized countless Black medical pioneers.

Throughout the 19th century, figures like David Augustus Chisolm, the first Black graduate of Harvard Medical School, and Rebecca Lee Crumpler, the first Black woman to earn an M.D. in America, defied prejudice and carved their own paths. They faced not only societal discrimination but also limited access to education and resources. Yet, their unwavering commitment to serving their communities propelled them forward, paving the way for future generations.

The 20th century witnessed a surge in Black medical advancements. Dr. Charles Drew, known for his groundbreaking work on blood plasma storage, revolutionized wartime medicine and saved countless lives. Dr. Dorothy Lavinia Brown, the first Black resident at New York Hospital, became a prominent surgeon and advocate for healthcare equity. Their achievements resonated far beyond the medical field, serving as powerful symbols of Black excellence and defying long-held stereotypes.

However, the journey towards equality has been fraught with challenges. Despite their qualifications and contributions, Black doctors have historically faced discrimination in hiring, promotions, and access to funding. The fight for equal opportunities continues, with disparities in healthcare access and representation still prevalent today.

Yet, the legacy of African American doctors remains an inspiration. Their unwavering dedication to healing, coupled with their courage in the face of adversity, serves as a testament to the enduring human spirit. Their stories remind us of the vital role they have played in shaping American medicine and underscore the continued need for equity and inclusion in the healthcare system.

Reading List:

This list, though not exhaustive, offers a diverse range of perspectives on the experiences and contributions of African American doctors within the broader context of American history and social justice. Through these voices, we gain a deeper understanding of their struggles, triumphs, and enduring legacy in the field of medicine.

It is important to note that the experiences of African American doctors are diverse and cannot be homogenized. This reading list attempts to offer a general overview of the topic, but further exploration into specific individuals and historical periods is encouraged.

Afrofuturism

Today just felt like afrofuturism. Here's some content from ai on afrofuturism and some prompt turning my plans for the next week into afrofuturism journey. Enjoy!

From Perplexity:

Afrofuturism is a cultural aesthetic and philosophy that combines elements of science fiction, technology, and futuristic concepts with Black history and culture. It encompasses literature, music, art, and activism, envisioning liberated futures for Black communities and inspiring pride. The movement dares to imagine a world where African-descended peoples and their cultures play a central role, challenging traditional narratives and stereotypes. Afrofuturism has a rich history and has had a broad influence on American culture, with its impact extending to music, film, literature, and visual arts. It is a multidisciplinary movement that addresses the experience of race, displacement, and difference using recognizable visual symbols[1][2][3]. The concept has also been the subject of a documentary exploring its definition and activism and the ways it informs dynamic discussions about social practice, politics, and the arts[5].

Citations: [1] https://www.metmuseum.org/perspectives/articles/2022/6/library-afrofuturism [2] https://nmaahc.si.edu/explore/exhibitions/afrofuturism [3] https://newsroom.ucla.edu/magazine/afrofuturism [4] https://www.reddit.com/r/worldbuilding/comments/8hkiqm/why_i_think_afrofuturism_is_a_silly_worldbuilding/ [5] https://www.pbs.org/video/afrofantastic-n5yggg/

Afrofuturism has made significant contributions to art and music, with various artists incorporating its themes and aesthetics into their work. In music, Afrofuturism is characterized by the fusion of different genres, innovative concepts, and influences from Black folk traditions and spirituality. Notable artists within Afrofuturism include Erykah Badu, Sun Ra, Janelle Monáe, Beyoncé, Solange Knowles, Thundercat, Shabazz Palaces, Little Simz, and Noname[1]. These artists have crafted a unique sonic landscape that resonates with diverse audiences worldwide. In art, Afrofuturism combines elements of science fiction, technology, and futuristic concepts with Black history and culture. It often uses current social movements or popular culture as a backdrop and focuses on works that examine the past, question the present, or imagine an optimistic future to inspire pride in their audience[3]. The movement has also been the subject of a documentary exploring its definition and activism and the ways it informs dynamic discussions about social practice, politics, and the arts[2]. The influence of Afrofuturism can be seen in various art forms, including literature, music, visual arts, and fashion, where it challenges traditional narratives and stereotypes while envisioning liberated futures for Black communities[5].

Citations: [1] https://culturebay.co/blogs/afrofuturism/evolution-of-afrofuturism-in-music [2] https://www.pbs.org/video/afrofantastic-n5yggg/ [3] https://www.metmuseum.org/perspectives/articles/2022/6/library-afrofuturism [4] https://www.carnegiehall.org/Explore/Articles/2022/03/03/Pop-Music-and-Afrofuturism [5] https://newsroom.ucla.edu/magazine/afrofuturism

Some common themes in Afrofuturist art and music include:

These themes are recurrent in Afrofuturist art and music, reflecting a complex interplay between history, culture, and speculative visions of the future.

Citations: [1] https://libguides.colum.edu/afrofuturism [2] https://haenfler.sites.grinnell.edu/afrofuturism/ [3] https://www.metmuseum.org/perspectives/articles/2022/6/library-afrofuturism [4] https://culturebay.co/blogs/afrofuturism/evolution-of-afrofuturism-in-music [5] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Afrofuturism

From Gemini (used a middle school level prompt first to show my daughter)

Blast Off with Afrofuturism!

Imagine soaring through a vibrant city in the clouds, powered by solar energy harnessed from ancient African griots' songs. Or picture robots adorned with intricate beadwork, programmed with wisdom passed down through generations. That's the world of Afrofuturism, and it's as exciting as it sounds!

Think science fiction, but cooler and with melanin. ✨ Instead of just spaceships and aliens, Afrofuturism throws in African culture, history, and traditions. It's like looking at the future through a lens designed by artists, musicians, and storytellers from the African diaspora.

Why is it important?

Afrofuturism is more than just cool spaceships. It's about:

Ready to join the adventure?

Here are some ways to explore Afrofuturism:

** Read:**

** Listen:**

** Watch:**

Remember, Afrofuturism is an ever-growing movement, so keep exploring and creating your own visions of the future!

Bonus!

I hope this sparks your curiosity about Afrofuturism! Remember, the future is what we make it, and in the Afrofuturist world, anything is possible. ✨

Now at a high school level:

Embark on the Intergalactic Griot's Journey: Understanding Afrofuturism at a High School Level

Greetings, future visionaries! Prepare to delve into the captivating realm of Afrofuturism, a movement that transcends mere science fiction, offering a powerful critique of the present while reimagining the possibilities of tomorrow through a distinctly Black lens.

Beyond Spaceships and Aliens:

Unlike traditional sci-fi narratives often devoid of diverse voices, Afrofuturism weaves elements of African culture, history, and mythology into its futuristic tapestry. It's not just about exploring distant galaxies; it's about reclaiming the narrative, challenging historical erasure, and asserting the agency and ingenuity of Black individuals and communities in shaping the future.

Why Does It Matter?:

More than just escapist entertainment, Afrofuturism serves as a critical lens:

Ready to Dive Deeper?

Engage with Literary Masterpieces:

Explore the Soundscape:

Immerse Yourself in Visual Spectacles:

Remember, Afrofuturism is an ever-evolving movement. Engage with new artists, authors, and creators, and don't hesitate to contribute your own unique vision to this ongoing conversation!

Pro Tip:

Join the conversation, question the present, and dream the future into existence! The vast canvas of Afrofuturism awaits your exploration.

Brotherhood and Brooklyn

My daughter goes to school in Brooklyn and they have a 20 year tradition known as The Brotherhood Dinner. Today is the Brotherhood dinner and here's how the school describes it:

Being able to send my child to a public school is one of the reasons I love living in Brooklyn. So today in images I celebrate Brotherhood and Brooklyn.

Black Judges

My dad is a retired federal Magistrate Judge, so today I thought I'd do a little tribute to black judges.

From Perplexity:

Some famous African American judges include:

These are just a few examples of the many African American judges who have made significant contributions to the U.S. judicial system[1][2].

Citations: [1] https://www.naacpldf.org/black-judges-history/ [2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_African_American_federal_judges [3] https://www.uscourts.gov/news/2023/02/09/african-american-judges-offer-life-lessons [4] https://www.ojp.gov/ncjrs/virtual-library/abstracts/black-judges-justice-perspectives-bench [5] https://www.supremecourt.ohio.gov/education/civic-ed/celebrating-black-history/

Here are five other African American judges:

These judges have made significant contributions to the U.S. judicial system and have played pivotal roles in shaping legal history.

Citations: [1] https://www.ojp.gov/ncjrs/virtual-library/abstracts/black-judges-justice-perspectives-bench [2] https://www.naacpldf.org/black-judges-history/ [3] https://mcca.com/resources/reports/federal-judiciary/african-american-judges-by-president/ [4] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_African_American_federal_judges [5] https://www.uscourts.gov/news/2023/02/09/african-american-judges-offer-life-lessons

Love

Yesterday's content was heavy so today for Valentine's day, I wanted to leave you with some pictures of love. My parent's have been together for over 50 years. Here they are:

I used their pictures and a one word prompt "Love" (with impressionism style for a few variations) . All midjourney today

Storytelling and Stolen History

I'm working on this larger project about the Great Migration so tradition of storytelling is big on my mind. My dad talked to me and my daughter about his Great Migration and I'll be doing some more interviews. A friend told me about a pivotal experience in her life which involved white supremacicst burning down her home. In my podcast, Ellis Conversations, my dad and I have talked a lot about some of those parts of history we don't learn about in school - Stolen History. Some of these events have been brought back to current consious like the Tulsa Massacre.

Two interesting things when exploring this with AI 1) You can get interesting creative written work 2) It is very hard to get images of parts of African American history because the images often contain acts of violence - the guard rails on most systems prevents this kind of image generation - I've run into this many time. So today I've gotten creative to show that history. (Note: Dalle3 through bing pretty much blocks everything I wanted to create for today so it's all midjourney)

Prompt: an African American family cries as they watch their family house burn in Tulsa in 1921

Prompt: an African American grandfather telling his granddaughter their painful family history