Why Black History Month Should Inspire Our Definition of Blackness

What does Blackness mean to you?

It’s hard to believe that it’s been three years since the global phenomenon and cultural shapeshifter Black Panther, ceremoniously hit theaters with the abundance of thematic gloriousness that propelled the celebratory crowns of Black folks both near and far.

Social media became an vibrant photo album, hosting the once-in-a-lifetime experience, documenting the unification of brothers and sisters, decked out in traditional garb that evidenced the undefeated force of Black power, and how it transcends the horrific infiltration of white power.

Returning to the stunning scene, depicting the elaborate reception to Marvel’s marvelous investment in the theatrical embodiment of a Black superhero and honorable monarch of the kingdom of Wakanda, the most technologically-advanced African nation, thanks to supercharged vibranium — it’s easy to recapture what made that season so magical.

For me, it was the idealistic characteristics of Nakia, played by the luminous Kenyan-Mexican actress Lupita Nyong’o, that captivated my imagination, while challenging the realness of struggling with an identity that I never seriously questioned, until a fictional African superpower forced the desire for reconciliation.