The Second Line Education Blog

In the last couple of years, I’ve been thinking a lot about how to connect with one’s roots and heritage as a means of resistance.  I reflect on Alice Walker’s famous quote that “resistance is the secret of joy,” and in the context of heritage and culture the meaning of her words is clearer to me. To be more fully who I am and to be less of what society expects me… Read More

Throughout my years of watching sports, I’ve witnessed men fight on the field, harass referees/umpires, slur officials, and even throw balls across the court when they disagree with a call, but when a woman, who is just as passionate about her athletic craft as a man, merely says to an umpire “You stole a point from me, and you are a thief,” she is penalized and as a result, loses a game…. Read More

By Felicia Simpson This article was first posted on www.feliciatsimpson.com Since the beginning of time, black women have helped to contribute to the growth and evolution of the world. Often minimized, our influence can’t be denied. From Dahomey warrior women who fought to defend their villages to abolitionists like Sojourner Truth who fought to defend their freedom; black women have demonstrated their ability to rise in the face of adversity. Our talents… Read More

Climbing what used to be the confederate monument at the entrance of City Park in New Orleans, LA was more than just for a photo opportunity.  It was a silent monologue that portrayed a snippet of the black woman’s struggle, the adversity we often face, and then….the exaltation we most definitely deserve.  This picture goes beyond a black girl wearing all white while perched on a monument in the middle of a… Read More

Feelings, crown, soul, and pride are all words  synonymous with hair for black Folks. Many of Our emotions, experiences, and expressions are intertwined within the embodiment of our hair. This sentiment was eloquently sang by Solange in the song “Don’t Touch My Hair.” India Arie boldly details in the song “I Am Not My Hair” that her hair is not totally indicative of who she is even though her hair is an… Read More