HOT 5 - 2/6/21
Andra Day, Billie Holiday
Dear HOT Friends,
Happy Black History Month! In honor of Black History Month this week's HOT 5 is dedicated to Black businesses, books, and a new movie you might not know about. I bet many of the people on the lists below are already making history!
1. We Can All Use a Little Wellness
2. Madewell Loves Black-Owned Brands
3. Help With Happy Hour
4. Must-Read Books By Black Women Authors
5. Andra Day Plays Lady Day
Here's a little history about Black History Month. It was the brainchild of Harvard educated Black historian Carter Woodson in 1926. He chose the 2nd week in February because it corresponded with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglas, dates that were already celebrated by the Black community throughout the country. He created it to formally recognize Black Americans' role in US history which had continually been overlooked and ignored by mainstream America. By the late 60s, it had evolved into Black History month and was celebrated on many college campuses where students were starting to embrace the Black Power movement. It was officially recognized as Black History Month by President Gerald Ford in 1976.
After the year we've just had I'm struck by the obvious need to celebrate Black history now more than ever. The knowledge and awareness of just how much Black Americans have contributed to this country need to be understood and recognized for the achievement it represents. I'd like to share this well-done slideshow produced by the Huffington Post which features 35 Black women who in the HuffPo's words "deserve much more glory" and I couldn't agree more!
1. We Can All Use a Little Wellness
This list of Black-owned wellness brands will help you discover just the thing for your possible state of high stress. I can personally recommend the Golde brand's Latte Turmeric blend. I bought it several years ago at the now-defunct Story Boutique before they were acquired by Macy's. I had no idea at the time that the brand's founder was a Black woman, I just knew I loved the delicious taste and the striking packaging. The brand has everything from superfood masks to detox kits so check it out!
2. Madewell Loves Black Owned Brands
Madewell, a destination for great denim and other casual wear was purchased by J. Crew in 2004 and is often referred to as the brand's little sister. However, Madewell has emerged as the company’s crown jewel, accounting for the majority of profits. The brand focuses on fabric technology and inclusivity of fit. What I really like about them though is the special push they're making to represent Black-owned fashion, jewelry, beauty, and even home decor brands on their website. I'm a fan of so many of these listed but I'd love to see them include even more.
3. Help With Happy Hour!
Has anyone found that wine has taken on ever greater meaning in their lives this past year? :) I for one have really enjoyed the glass of (usually) a very well chilled light white or rosé that signals the beginning of my evening after a long day of sameness. How excited was I to find some really great sounding bottles from wineries owned by Black winemakers, winegrowers, sommeliers, and entrepreneurs. I particularly loved reading about 2 sets of sisters who have great backstories and delicious sounding products I'd like to try! (See slides 5 and 7)
4. Must-Read Books By Black Women Authors
I always love sharing books with you dear readers and when I recently came across this list from Marie Claire Magazine I especially wanted to share it since I have read and loved many of the authors and books highlighted and can enthusiastically recommend them all. If you haven't read Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie I would start there. It's a wise and brilliant look at what it's like to navigate being a young immigrant woman in this country. You'll love it.
5. Andra Day Plays Lady Day
When I saw the trailer for Lee Daniel's new film about phenomenal jazz singer Billie Holiday I knew I had to put it at the top of my watch list. It's premiering on Feb. 26th on Hulu. Called The United States vs. Billie Holiday it delves into the campaign launched by the FBI to target Billie Holiday because of her outspokenness about racism and her refusal to stop singing her gut-wrenching protest song, Strange Fruit. Who better to play Lady Day than the immensely talented singer (and now actor) Andra Day? Don't miss this one.
Have a wonderful weekend and remember to support Black-owned businesses this Black History Month and always.
Terry xoxo
P.S. Follow me on Instagram for my special daily tribute to Black Americans who've made history in the creative arts.
