Black Power

The term "Black Power" was popularized by Stokely Carmichael and Willie Ricks during a speech in 1966. However, Richard Wright's book entitled Black Power was published in 1954. Since then, there have been several terms that celebrate Black Empowerment, (#BlackGirlMagic, #BlackGirlsRock, #BlackLivesMatter, #BlackisBeautiful, #ImBlackandImProud, #BlackPride, #BlackExcellence). All of these terms resonate within the Black community. 

I finally saw Black Panther. I posed with my fist in the air next to signage. I dressed in all black. I encouraged my daughters, mother, and mother in law to do the same. We posed with our stuffed T'Challa beaming with pride. Representation matters. Gianna and Jai'Lynn will remember that three generations of their family went to see Black Panther on a school night. They will remember the Dora Milaje. They will remember the pretty little girl in the bathroom with dashiki. They will remember Shuri, the STEM genius. 

Black Power is about representation in the global marketplace. It is about economic, social, and political empowerment. It is about positive media representation. It is about reclaiming our time, our talents, and our heritage. 

Xenial

It's holiday season. Fall decorations are on sale. Turkeys can be preordered. Holiday menus are being planned. Party invitations are being sent. It's all about hospitality. As you prepare your homes to entertain guests, make sure that you prepare your heart. Make sure that you have a xenial spirit. A xenial spirit is a hospitable spirit, one that is giving, loving and kind. 

"Hospitality is not about inviting people into your perfect home, it’s about inviting them into your imperfect heart."