I love Black people. It’s that love that sparked my curiosity in 2016 about the Black experience and our culture in America. It’s not that my curiosity hadn’t been there in a way but for some reason it was like a fire I couldn’t put out.
It all started with rollerskaters, motorcycles, and dolls. I really don’t know which came first but I think it was the dolls. I vividly remember sitting across from a local Black dollmaker, Ausie, as she spoke of sewing lessons from her grandmother.
Those lessons later transitioned into hand-sewn dolls that Ausie would sell at festivals, markets, and other local events welcoming vendors. It was the first time that I became aware of just how our talents are not really showcased.
I would later head to Alabama to hang out with rollerskaters and somewhere in there to Missouri where thousands of Black motorcyclists would meet for an annual convention.
I told myself that when I retired as a newsroom journalist, I would travel the world telling stories about how beautiful and diverse Black people are. I’m not retired. The opportunity to chase those stories came sooner than I anticipated and it seems like it was the right time.
As a Black person, I felt overwhelmed with negative news and I needed a healing space. That’s what Black Like Us is, a space to be unapologetically Black.
The stories that we tell with Black Like Us empower and impact not just the reader but also allow others to feel empowered when being able to take
The stories that we tell with Black Like Us empowers and impacts. Our stories allow people to own their greatness and share it with others.
This is one of many reasons why we are monetizing our work. We have to sustain and with your support, we will be able to continue our storytelling.
For $4.99 per month or $49.99 per year become a Black Like Us premium subscriber and get:
- Premium stories
- Subscriber-only engagement access
- And the most authentic content to the subscription…Notes from a Black Girl, my column featuring commentary and behind-the-scenes stories, videos, and images from my journey of self-discovery as I travel across the country telling stories and sharing experiences.
If you are already a premium subscriber, please encourage others to become premium subscribers too.
This is my passion. I’m supposed to do this work.
Having the ability to show diverse depictions of Black culture. Being able to tell stories about Black people doing incredible things and making a difference.
As a premium subscriber, you’re supporting much-needed reporting that shows the diversity of Black folks in America. Let’s continue to change the narrative by supporting work that inspires, impacts, and empowers.
This premium subscription is $4.99 per month or a one-time yearly payment of $49.99. Click here to become a premium subscriber.
Your engagement and support are appreciated. Let’s continue to celebrate Black culture.
Thank you for all of your love and support,
Jiquanda