The Internet’s Favorite Stories of Black Joy This Black History Month

As Black History Month concludes today, many reflect on the U.S.’s complex history with the Black community. Outside of ongoing battles regarding concepts like critical race theory in education, many Black celebrities and social media creators took this month to honor and commemorate moments of success and joy.

Today, actress Keke Palmer and boyfriend Darius Jackson welcomed their first child together. Their son is named Leodis Andrellton Jackson, and they’ve nicknamed him Leo. Palmer first revealed her pregnancy on live television during a Saturday Night Live sketch, and today shared a sweet photo of her son on Instagram.

Earlier this month, Beyoncé became the most decorated Grammy winner of all time with her 2023 wins for dance/electronic recording, dance/electronic album, R&B performance and R&B song. All were for her massively successful album Renaissance, which honors the Black LGBTQ+ people who were essential in the creation of house music. Beyoncé has spoken about how her late uncle inspired much of the album.

Former First Lady Michelle Obama posted a tribute to Black women artists, namely a few who drew up their own creations inspired by her latest book, The Light We Carry.

Proud parents also showcased their children’s art across social media.

https://twitter.com/garet39/status/1630626524108816384?s=20

Throughout this month, TikTok creators got imaginative in honoring Black history, and showcasing humorous moments of Black joy. One trend involved Black students being jokingly pampered by their white friends and classmates at school.

TikTok creator Ellie Sunman (@elliesunmanxo) shared a video showcasing the several everyday inventions that Black people have created, from the light switch to the clothes dryer. Sunman’s simple yet effective idea got an important point across to five million viewers.

https://www.tiktok.com/@elliesunmanxo/video/7198251207763447045?_r=1&_t=8aGdvCmRmjS

Popular TikTok creator Tabitha Brown (@iamtabithabrown) first went viral at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, for her comforting messages of hope and helpful vegan recipes. In January, Brown’s line of snacks launched at Target, and within the month of February, her popcorn was sold out at store locations across the country.

TikTok has previously come under criticism for its algorithm allegedly “shadow banning” Black creators’ content.The phenomenon was discussed on the platform after a series of similar video ideas posted by white creators after Black creators posted them went viral over the original content. This month, despite this history of challenges, several Black creators had bright moments of success.

Aliyah (@aliyahsinterlude1) has built a platform on her signature y2k fashion looks and sense of humor. She recently walked the runway in London Fashion Week.

https://www.tiktok.com/@aliyahsinterlude1/video/7201661812176178475?_r=1&_t=8aGfTTmdHzv

Beauty and lifestyle creator Monet McMichael (@monetmcmichael) was verified on TikTok at the end of January, and was invited on several big brand trips this month, including a Tarte trip to Dubai and a Glow Recipe getaway to Wyoming.

The Biden administration concluded Black History Month with a celebration at the White House. Current Vice President Kamala Harris made history as the first woman vice president, and the first woman of color in the White House. Several young Black leaders were in attendance, and were honored at the event.

Despite being the shortest month of the year, this Black History Month was certainly one of the brightest.

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