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 28, I’m spotlighting the fabulous Issa Rae.
Issa Rae was born in Los Angeles and studied African and African-American Studies at Stanford University.
Issa burst onto the scene with her web series Awkward Black Girl. After its success, she created and starred in the Peabody-winning series Insecure. She also starred in the movies Barbie, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, and American Fiction.
Issa Rae is an activist, and you can see it in her consistent actions to hold people in power accountable for supporting diverse artists. A few years back, Issa called out Hollywood corporations for their retreat from their DEI commitments. Like the rest of Corporate America, many of the promises made by Hollywood execs to Black people and other people of color are becoming promises broken as they seem less interested in making "diverse stories." (Despite these stories making more money… guess it’s not all about the bottom line then… I digress)
Issa said these broken promises are driving her to think about striking out on her own:
“I am pessimistic because there’s no one holding anybody accountable – and I can, sure, but also at what cost? I can’t force you to make my stuff.” - Issa Rae
So she made her own stuff and paved the way for others to make their stuff, too. In 2022, Issa created the production company HOORAE. As the founder of HOORAE Media, Issa champions diverse storytelling across film, TV, and music.
This month, Issa canceled her upcoming sold-out show at the Kennedy Center in protest to the harm that the current presidential administration is doing to communities she cares about.
“Unfortunately, due to what I believe to be an infringement on the values of an institution that has faithfully celebrated artists of all backgrounds through all mediums, I’ve decided to cancel my appearance at this venue.” -Issa Rae
Issa Rae is unapologetically Pro-Black, and I love it. About six years ago, when Issa was asked on the Red Carpet of the Emmys who she was rooting for, she said without missing a beat, "I'm rooting for everybody Black." And I'm so here for it!
Like Issa, I’m going to root for everybody Black. I hope that Black people are reminded every day that we are miracles. We make culture. And art. And joy. And we deserve to be treasured. I’m hoping that all of us remember the wisdom of our ancestors that got us this far and we keep moving forward.
I’m rooting for everybody Black. I hope you do, too.
Thank you, Issa Rae, for showing what it means to love Blackness completely.
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