This Black History Month, I’m sharing art, songs, movies, and other creative expressions from and about Black women that spark joy for me. Because Black women are often not remembered for their contributions, I thought this would be one way to give flowers to those who inspire me.
For Day 14 and Valentine’s Day, I thought I’d spotlight Quinta Brunson for her deep love for Black children’s joy that she showcases on her show, Abbott Elementary.
Originally from Philadelphia, Quinta Brunson burst onto the scene with her comedy on Buzzfeed and Instagram. Quinta has starred in several TV shows and is an author. She created the hit Abbott Elementary to honor her favorite teacher, Mrs Abbott, and her mom, who was also a teacher.
In 2022, Quinta became the first Black woman to win an Emmy for Outstanding Writing For a Comedy Series solo. In 2023, she became the second Black woman (after Isabel Sanford in 1981 for her work on The Jeffersons) to win the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series.
Abbott Elementary is something special. The mockumentary style makes you feel like you’re in on the jokes. You can feel the love the teachers have their students, which counters the false narrative about Black teachers in Black schools.
I lived in Philly for 9 years, and people often underestimate the magic of Philly. I appreciate the care she has with Philly and Black children’s joy. A few years ago, people began asking Quinta Brunson if she would do a school shooting episode.
Quinta refused.
She wanted to center the joy of the show. She pointed out the irony that by trying to pressure her to do an episode about school shootings for social change, they were demanding more of her than they were their elected officials who could actually work on changing policies to address the prolific gun violence in the US. Quinta protected the story of these joyful Black children from being exposed to political violence. Because Black children deserve joy, too.
Thank you, Quinta Brunson, for honoring the educators who teach Black children, protecting Black children’s joy, and reminding us that Black stories can go beyond trauma.
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