“For me the history of the place of Black people in this country is so varied, complex and beautiful. And impactful.” ~ From the documentary film Toni Morrison: The Pieces I Am.
February is dedicated as Black History Month, honoring the triumphs and struggles of African Americans throughout U.S. history. Black History Month started in 1926 when historian Carter G. Woodson proposed marking a time to honor African Americans and raise awareness of Black history, going beyond stories of racism and slavery to spotlight Black achievement. Your libraries are celebrating the contributions of African Americans throughout February. This week we recognize well-known Toni Morrison. Morrison, Ohio-born African American novelist born February 18, 1931. She was originally named Chloe Anthony Wofford. Her first novel, The Bluest Eye, was published in 1970. The critically acclaimed Song of Solomon brought her national attention and won the National Book Critics Circle Award. She won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1993 and the Pulitzer in 1987. Morrison died on August 5, 2019. Your library can help you find more information about Morrison and many other influential historical and contemporary Black Americans. You can also find a wide selection of fiction and poetry by people of color. Go to your local MORE library where all the information and help is free with your library card.
“History has shown us that courage can be contagious, and hope can take on a life of its own.” ~ Michelle Obama, first Black first lady of the United States