Empowerment through Narratives: Black History Month Reflections

Throughout history, stories have been powerful tools for passing down knowledge and information. Stories can help us understand who we are, how the world works, and the values we can live by. Stories can show us what has happened, what can happen, and what, if anything, may lay beyond the ordinary world of our senses. 

Reflecting on Black History Month, storytelling becomes especially important. Sharing Black stories and histories, whether they are uplifting or difficult, plays a crucial role in shaping how we understand the Black experience in the Americas. It can be more than just recalling the past or recognizing the contributions of Black individuals; it can also be about thinking, feeling, and connecting to Black diasporic experiences. 

As a therapist, I have witnessed the transformative power of storytelling and retelling within healing spaces and communities. Storytelling can serve as a means of reclaiming agency, processing historical traumas, and fostering connections among individuals who share similar experiences. Through the retelling of stories, the community not only preserves its rich cultural heritage but also challenges stereotypes, empowers future generations, and builds solidarity. 

I invite you to reflect on the following journal prompts: 

• Can you identify any stories or narratives from Black History that have resonated with you on a personal level?

• How do the emotions evoked by Black stories align with or differ from your own personal experiences?

• Reflect on whether certain stories have acted as emotional mirrors, reflecting aspects of your own journey.

In essence, storytelling and its continuous retelling can contribute to a dynamic, evolving narrative that shapes and reflects the collective experiences, challenges, and triumphs of a community. Your voice matters in this ongoing conversation about the profound impact of storytelling within the Black diaspora. Engage with me on Instagram (@aumubera) or my Facebook page (@aumubera), share your thoughts, and let’s foster a community that celebrates the diverse narratives that shape our understanding of the Black experience.  

Ada Umubera, LMSW,  originally published this article in UMOJA Magazine, a respected publication dedicated to reflecting the unique stories, history, and people of our community. To read more great articles, from their publication, please visit www.umojamagazine.com.