Throughout this series of articles dedicated to Black History Month on Transatlantic Notes, we’ve encountered and learned about some incredible people. Often overcoming the all-pervading reach of racism within American society and the generational trauma it inflicts, there have been trailblazers, innovators and influential African Americans who have both challenged and changed this nation for the better.
But history does not always favour their contributions or reliably educate about who they were, what they achieved or what they hoped for. If certain parts of American history can be overlooked, they can be misrepresented and silenced. And suppressed voices don’t often get to decide how history is written — instead, it’s frequently observed through a lens that distorts in service of those who do. We must collectively face what so many have given their life’s work to have us understand; the fight for equality, equity, justice and freedom requires truth, reconciliation and action.
Here is a collection of inspirational and motivational quotes for Black History Month …
Which is your favourite quote? How are you making sure the lives, words and actions of these Black History changemakers are honoured?
Further Info:
About Black History Month – ASALH
transatlantic | notes 
I really liked reading these and found them all truly inspiring! Though two of them I think impacted me more and wrote them down:’when I liberate others, I liberate myself’ and ‘if they don’t give you a seta at the table, bring a folding chair’ I mean, these women are so inspiring and really need to get other people to know them! Just found out that Miss Chisholm wrote some books, so can’t wait to learn more about her! Thank you very much x
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Yes, I love those quotes too as they are relevant on all levels of life (especially as a woman). Shirley Chisholm was a powerhouse and a true trailblazer so I’ll be checking out some of her written works too! Thanks for stopping by!
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Wow! All of these are so powerful. I will never fully understand what Black people went through but I love that I can continuously be educated about their history. The James Baldwin one was my favourite. It’s so raw and can be relatable. Thanks for sharing, Molly x
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I agree — the James Baldwin quotes just gets right to the point and speaks so much truth with it. Thank you so much fro stopping by to read!
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Wow, these are incredible quotes. So inspiring and motivational!
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Thank you — I agree with you 100%!
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I loved all of these, but the Ruby Bridges quote really spoke to me – that experience comes to us for a purpose. Thank you for sharing them!
You mentioned parts of American history being misrepresented and suppressed – I was watching a YouTube video yesterday of Reni Eddo-Lodge talking to Emma Watson about the same thing happening in the UK. It’s frightening how much of history isn’t what we think it is (we often think it’s just facts, when it’s actually someone’s version of the facts). I was an adult before I realised this! When you’re at school you tend to just accept what you’re told, and it’s dangerous.
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The quote from Ruby Bridges speaks to me too on many levels — she’s truly amazing! I think the UK very much has the same issue with how it (mis)represents its own history. I think a lot of people are missing out on being given a full, robust history education and it perpetuates misinformation and often paints oppressors/colonizers as saints. Hopefully, things will change even more so that things are no longer selectively edited.
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Thank you so much for sharing these great, moving, and inspiring quotes.
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I’m so glad you enjoyed them — thanks for reading!
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