Today, let's reflect on a remarkable woman in Black History named Zora Neale Hurston. She was an African American author and philanthropist who captured the racial struggles of Black Americans in the south during the early 1900's. Her writings were considered unapologetic and authentic to the inequities that people of color endured as a result of no true research of black america.
Ms. Hurston was very determined to get her education and worked several jobs to help support her writings and her education. At the age of 26 she lied about her age in order to qualify for free public schooling to finish high school. She would go on to become the first black student to attend Bernard College. Zora faced many obstacles that would challenge her patience and character not only as a person but as a writer.
Zora endured criticism from some in the black community because her writings would include black southern vernacular. It was said that it was a source of entertainment to the white community. However, Zora knew her writings were true of what she learned from researching southern culture.
She was a leader during the Harlem Renaissance who fought for to protect the rights of African Americans while exposing the racism that existed. She was a very accomplished writer who was forgot about by the public. However, her writings and short stories would gain more acknowledgement after her death. One of her most famous novels "Their Eyes Were Watching God" was made into a feature film in 2005.
She has been described as outspoken, independent, arrogant, and controversial, but I believe she was ahead of her time. She knew exactly what she wanted to do and she did not allow anything to stop her. Although she died without the accreditation she deserved, she laid a blueprint for generations of women to follow that would bring her a lifetime of praise. Let us recognize women who have paved the way before us, and pay it forward to the younger generation of women after us.
~Toodles~
I have heard a little bit about Zora Neale Hurston, but I definitely need to read and learn some more about her and her incredible life/legacy. Thanks for sharing this introduction to this incredible woman!
Molly | transatlanticnotes.com
This is interesting, first time to know about Zora Neale Hurston but I know there many amazing African women. Good to celebrate the black history month.
@Tameka Thanks for dropping that gem! I enjoy learning about our people as well. I feel like once you tap into Black History, you will have a different perspective on life.
Iam so glad to have Black history month. To bad we only get to celebrate it i month out of the year. Tiffany So iam glad to do some research also to celebrate Black history month.Ruby Bridges was born 1954 to present. She was the first African American child to intergrate an all white public school in Louisiana. She continues to serve as a Civil Rights activist and runs the Ruby Bridges Foundation, which promotes tolerance, respect,and appreciation of differences. She published her first book ( Through My Eyes) about her experience in school. And a children’s version (Ruby Goes to School: My True Story) . I Love and appreciate Black history month to keep continuing to learn about our Black people!! meekmilli